Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. estimated losses to be at Php 10 billion, from March 15 to April 30, following the coronavirus pandemic that led to the province to be placed under enhanced community quarantine. To help alleviate the impact on the local economy, the provincial government crafted a rehabilitation and recovery strategy plan.
The following industries and estimated losses:
- Tourism sector – Php 1.1 billion
- Business and trade industry – Php 4.8 billion
- Agricultural sector – Php 103 million
- Transport sector – Php 59.8 million for PUJ and Php 44.6 for PUB
In addition, Governor Defensor said that 379,060 formal and informal workers from 38 local government units have been affected by the recent crisis, leading to Php 2.4 billion losses in employment. Moreover, losses incurred due by the Department of Public Works and Highways due to cessation of construction projects are estimated to be at Php 117 million, with 5,280 workers affected.
Meanwhile, in the Business Process Outsourcing industry, around Php 2 billion was lost.
“Our priority will be agriculture. There are a lot of unsold products, as well as loss in capital. Then the tourism industry because of zero tourist arrivals. Another priority is public transport. But of course, everybody is affected. You have the direction, which is this, but you must have the budget. What will you add to the strategy and budget of the province for 2020? That is the challenge. What will be your innovations for you to say that you have a recovery program that will really stimulate the economy?” states Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., in an article by Panay News.
