BAGUIO CITY — The Department of Agriculture-Cordillera (DA- CAR) showcased key programs and initiatives aimed at tackling the challenges faced by the agriculture and fisheries sectors in the region in celebration of the Farmer and Fisherfolks Month this May, circulating on this year’s theme, “Magsasaka at Mangigisda, Katuwang tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
This year’s celebration sought to know the vital role of our farmers and fisherfolks in building a prosperous Bagong Pilipinas. Atty. Jennilyn M. Dawayan, the Regional Executive Director of DA-CAR, outlined the national 3-year plan aimed at revitalizing these sectors, aligned with their vision, during the recent press conference in Baguio City. These plans include expanding and improving available agri-fisher areas to increase production; Recognizing that there is a need to mechanize and modernize the agriculture and fishery production system; Better post-harvest system in infrastructure to enhance post-production; developing efficient logistics systems for input and production output; expansion of market access digitalization; proper balancing of both the agency in terms of development and regulatory; strong partnership with farmers, fisherfolk, and the private sector.
She also shared that the new Secretary of Department of Agriculture, Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr, is committed to bring the commodities prices down which adhere to their goals for producing budget-friendly food. “Ang ating bagong secretary, Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., wala naman pong pagkakaiba masyado doon po sa binitwan niyang direktiba para sa ating magsasaka at mangingisda,” Dawayan stated.
Moreover, to further execute projects and programs for these sectors, the new farmer director for this month, Ryan A. Palunan, discussed his role in ensuring that DA programs focus on the needs of farmers and fisherfolk. In his statement, he said that the farmer executive regional director is also one of the celebration’s highlights. He emphasized his position as a bridge between the government and private sectors, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
Palunan noted that the DA in the region places great importance on working with the private sector to implement plans and projects effectively. He also mentioned their advocacy to strengthen youth involvement in agriculture and fisheries. “Agriculture is not just about production; there are various fields we can explore in this sector. We should encourage the younger generation to consider agriculture a career choice, especially when entering college,” Palunan said.
Meanwhile, one organic farmer, Ester Caga from La Trinidad, Benguet, shared activities and updates of the intervention they received from the government. She mentioned that the local government unit encourage them to federate all organic farmers association which resulted to the formation of Organic Participatory Guarantee System of La Trinidad (OPGSLT). “Yung mga interventions na nakuha naming sa gobyerno, marami naman. Kasi palagi kaming sumusulat sa DA para yung mga tinatago nilang interventions ay mabibigay sa amin”. Caga explained. She also highlighted an ordinance by the LGU supporting the market of their organic crops.
The government actively sought the financial resources necessary to maintain the sufficiency level needed to support the community. Currently, the Cordillera region remains a significant producer of semi-temperate vegetables, supplying Metro Manila and other areas.
This year’s Farmer and Fisherfolks Month celebration by DA-CAR underscored the importance of unity and teamwork between the government and private sector to achieve one common goal: the betterment of food security in the region. By Joshmine Reanne Castaño
