Surigao Norte guv highlights farmer-centric programs in info caravan, Post-SONA forum
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
Barbers
Tandag City, Surigao del Sur – Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon S. Barbers delivered an inspiring message during the Information Caravan cum Post-SONA Forum 2024 with the theme, "Masaganang Agrikultura Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas,” held at the Surigao City gymnasium on November 28.
In his speech, Gov. Barbers emphasized the provincial government’s efforts to prioritize farmers and fisherfolk through initiatives like the Bagsakan Center.
“Our Bagsakan Center aims to eliminate all middlemen, ensuring that all Surigaonons benefit directly from the products of our farmers and fisherfolk,” he said.
Barbers also stressed the importance of protecting local producers adding, “Your produce is your income, not an opportunity for outsiders to profit.”
The event, organized by the Department of Agriculture together with its attached agencies such as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), among others, highlighted the programs and projects that support agriculture and fisheries in the region.
Post-SONA Forum
The activity formed part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. 's Post-SONA initiative, highlighting the critical role of timely and accurate information dissemination of the programs and projects of the government to the target beneficiaries.
In Caraga region, through the PIA Caraga, this Post-SONA activity disseminated the priority programs of the Department of Agriculture and its attached agencies to the 407 farmers and fisherfolk in the province of Surigao del Norte.
Advocating for sustainable agriculture
Julio T. Turaja, Jr., agriculturist II and soil and water access team alternate regional focal from the BSWM, shared insights on sustainable agricultural practices. He discussed the advantages of composting facilities for biodegradable waste, particularly in soil rehabilitation and fertilizer cost reduction.
"Our office always foresees our soil and water for agriculture," Turaja stated, emphasizing that using biodegradable waste as fertilizer not only cuts costs for farmers but also boosts their harvest yields.
Launching AGRISENSO Lending Program
Melody M. Guimary, chief of the DA Field Operation Division and Regional Corn Program coordinator, introduced the AGRISENSO Lending Program to Surigaonon farmers. This initiative, part of the National Rice Program’s clustering and convergence initiatives, aims to enhance rice clusters and implement a voucher modality system in the region.
The program, a collaborative effort of the DA, Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), and Landbank of the Philippines, offers accessible, affordable, and timely financial assistance to farmers, agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs), and stakeholders in the agricultural value chain. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s agenda on food security.
A platform for progress
Deputy Director General for Regional Operations Adolfo Ares Gutierrez of the PIA underscored Surigao City’s role as one of the identified venues for the Post-SONA Forum, citing the President’s commitment to advancing agriculture and fisheries, especially in Mindanao.
"Here in Caraga region, our information officers actively work with counterparts in other government departments to inform farmers, fisherfolk, and stakeholders about the latest programs of the agri-aqua industries," Gutierrez shared.
Gutierrez also reiterated the PIA's dedication to providing timely, accurate, and relevant information to ensure the government’s programs reach the grassroots level, empowering communities and supporting the administration’s vision for a prosperous Philippines.
A bright future for agriculture in Surigao
The Information Caravan 2024 cum Post-SONA Forum 2024 showcased the strong collaboration between local and national agencies, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to uplifting farmers and fisherfolk. With initiatives like the Bagsakan Center, AGRISENSO Lending Program, and sustainable agriculture practices, the agriculture sector in the province of Surigao del Norte will be livable and worthwhile. (NGPB/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
