‘Lamas sa Kinabuhi’ strengthens garlic production in Dinagat Islands
By Renelle L. Escuadro
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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)