Special emergency loan program opens for farmers

Emergency loans now available to qualifying agricultural entities in response to flooding experienced on the island during April and May “will be available for operational capital, purchase of inputs, cleaning of roads, new plantings, rehabilitation of structures, and other uses directly related to the recovery of the farm,” an official said.

By The Star Staff

In response to the flooding caused by the severe rains recorded during April and May, the island Department of Agriculture announced Thursday the start of a special emergency loan program for affected farmers.

The measure is part of the agricultural recovery plan promoted by Executive Order OE-2025-022 issued by Gov. Jenniffer González Colón, in which a state of emergency was declared in the most impacted municipalities.

Agriculture Secretary Josué E. Rivera said the program will be administered by the Innovation Fund for Agricultural Development (FIDA by its acronym in Spanish), and will be available to individual farmers, agribusinesses, cooperatives, value-added industries and other entities impacted by the rains.

“Our commitment to farmer welfare and the food security of our island is unwavering,” Rivera said. “We know that these rains caused significant damage in numerous agricultural regions and that is why we are acting swiftly to provide the necessary financial relief. This program represents a vital tool for our farms to return to productive prosperity.”

FIDA Executive Director Dr. Ruth L. Pagán Alvarado detailed the terms of the program. Loans range from $5,000 to $100,000, with fixed interest rates of 3.75% per year and a three-month moratorium on principal and interest payments, she noted.

“They will be available for operational capital, purchase of inputs, cleaning of roads, new plantings, rehabilitation of structures, and other uses directly related to the recovery of the farm,” Pagán Alvarado said.

The period for filing applications will be extended until June 30. To be eligible, applicants must submit a proposal, evidence of ownership of the property, tax returns, corporate documents, and complete the official FIDA form. The claimed losses must be directly linked to the weather event.

The program will be available through the Department of Agriculture’s regional offices in Arecibo, Caguas, Lares, Mayagüez, Naranjito, Ponce, San Germán and Utuado.

For more information and guidance, interested parties can contact the Agriculture Department’s regional offices, or 787-723-9090 ext. 2416, 2406, or visit www.agricultura.pr.gov.