CEBU CITY: Governor Gwendolyn Garcia on Friday declared the entire Cebu province under a state of calamity as 32 of its 50 local governments reported PHP176.8 million in damage to crops and livestock amid the onslaught of El Nin~o.Garcia pledged to focus on assisting the agricultural sector. She, however, clarified that the declaration does not intend to give 'dole outs' to the residents but is a recognition of the damage being beyond normal.'The culture we wish to nurture in the entire province of Cebu (is) not a culture of mendicancy,' she said.Capitol records showed that as of May 16, El Nin~o has affected 12,312 farmers and fisherfolk tilling a total area of 3,179.32 hectares.Garcia said she would issue an executive order to lay down the parameters for providing assistance to farmers.Meanwhile, the Provincial Board is set to pass a resolution on May 20 supporting the governor's declaration.Source: Philippines News Agency