FAO seed distribution after Typhoon Haiyan

On the 8th November 2013, Typhoon Haiyan (locally known as Yolanda) devastated the central Philippines killing more than 6,000 people, affecting another 14 million, and causing damage to an estimated 600 000 ha of farmland. Regions VI and VIII, the most affected regions, are benefitting from FAO rice seed support. FAO is delivering critical rice seed to around 43 000 affected farmers in time for the December/January planting season. More than 1,800 tonnes of rice seed are being delivered, which by March/April should yield enough to feed around 800,000 people for a year, at an estimated value of USD84 million.