ROME (AP) The deadly typhoon that ravaged much of the Philippines struck at the start of the main rice-planting season, dealing further sorrow to the Asian nation.
In Rome, the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization estimates than more than 1 million rice farmers have been affected by destruction of rice fields.
U.N. agricultural experts also said Tuesday that a severe impact on coconut production is expected. Fishing communities also suffered loss of gear and boats.
The U.N. agency says it has deployed emergency response staff and is using $1 million (750,000) from its own resources to cover such immediate farm needs as seeds and fertilizers. It says some $24 million (18 million euros) will be required for other needs, including rehabilitating irrigation facilities.
