Tuesday, 25 March 2025

‘Lamas sa Kinabuhi’ strengthens garlic production in Dinagat Islands

By Renelle L. Escuadro   

BUTUAN CITY – To boost garlic production, the province of Dinagat Islands established a technology demonstration farm in Barangay Cuarinta, San Jose, under the “Lamas sa Kinabuhi” program.

“Lamas” in Visayas and most of Mindanao means spice or spices.

Provincial Agriculturist Rico Galinato said, “Through technology demonstration on garlic production under the ‘Lamas sa Kinabuhi’ program spearheaded by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg), we aim to expand the knowledge and skills of our local farmers on how to effectively grow garlic in our area.”

He added that the initiative will serve as an additional income source for farmers, reducing garlic importation from mainland Surigao and other regions. “If we have our own supply and can sustain it, it will strengthen our local agriculture,” he explained.

Galinato also shared that the technology demonstration farm will showcase new farming technology, ensuring garlic production thrives in the province despite climate change.

OPAg also highlighted that other agricultural products, such as pepper and various crops and vegetables, are available at the farm for farmers, learners and stakeholders to learn about.

Senior high school learners from Don Ruben Edera Ecleo Sr. Memorial National High School participated in a 10-day immersion at the technology demonstration farm, where they witnessed and learned new garlic production methods, including land preparation and organic fertilizer concoction.

The “Lamas sa Kinabuhi” program is another initiative of the provincial government to support food security and enhance farmers’ livelihoods through diversification. The technology demonstration farm provides a tangible opportunity for key players in the province’s agriculture sector to develop their farming skills. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands)