The Philippines Department of Agriculture said last week that it is the first time in three years that the country will import dressed chicken. It is hoping the imports will arrive by December when demand is at its peak because of the Christmas season.

Damages to the agricultural sector in the Philippines have now been estimated at about P1.19 billion ($24 million), double that of an initial assessment of P515 million ($10.3 million).

Damages to agricultural infrastructure are estimated at P146 million ($2.92 million).

Rice, fishery and poultry are the worst hit commodities, while high value commercial crops such as banana, mango and papaya were similarly affected.

The US Foreign Agricultural Service reports that industry assessments estimate losses by the poultry sector at about P250 million ($5 million). Repairing poultry houses is expected to take a few months, affecting domestic supply.

Guidelines for the newly authorized imports have yet to be completed and finalized by the Department. However local meat traders and importers have voiced concerns about the actual ability of the local poultry raisers and integrators given the short period to undertake the importation.