BAGUIO CITY – The Turn-Over Ceremony for the results of the Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative Agriculture (AMIA) project in Abra province marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera and partner agencies.
The research project titled, “Targeting Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture: Targeting and Prioritization for the Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (AMIA) in Abra”, was implemented by the Benguet State University-Center for Geoinformatics in partnership with the DA-AMIA-CAR.
The research findings play a crucial role in selecting an AMIA village in Abra, which will serve as a model for adaptation and mitigation initiatives. The village will not only implement tailored-fit solutions but also foster institutional linkages to ensure the sustainability of climate-resilient practices. Additionally, it will serve as a learning hub for neighboring communities and facilitate the introduction of technological and institutional innovations. So that these villages may have access to climate-relevant support services.
The research highlighted the vulnerability of key commodities such as rice, corn, coffee, and mango to climate change impacts. It emphasized the importance of enhancing farmers’ adaptive capacity through appropriate policies, planning, and programs.
Dr. Janet Pablo, Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Resources Research and Development (CorCAARD) Director, emphasized the significance of addressing exposure and sensitivity while promoting adaptation strategies to mitigate negative impacts.
Moreover, the need to document and enhance adaptation practices was emphasized, with a focus on providing farmers with the necessary knowledge and training to utilize available technologies effectively.
Beverly Pekas, DA-AMIA-CAR Focal Person, expressed her gratitude for the collaborative efforts and stressed the importance of utilizing the research results to formulate appropriate climate change adaptation programs for Abra province.
The turn-over ceremony signifies a commitment to promoting climate-resilient agriculture and fostering partnerships for future endeavors in Abra and beyond. By Chamanei Elias