Agri-10 kicks off the conduct of its InfoCar in MisOr and bares the various agri assistance to farmers and other agri stakeholders, especially during the La Niña phenomenon.

 

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – In a proactive effort to mitigate the anticipated impacts of La Niña on agriculture, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), led by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, kicked off its annual regionwide Information Caravan in the province of Misamis Oriental on July 2, barangay Cugman, in this city.

Spearheaded by the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section (RAFIS), the agency’s information and communications arm, the event aimed to equip farmers and partners from the local government units (LGUs) with crucial information on La Niña, its effects on agriculture, and mitigation strategies.

Typically occurring from June to November, La Niña significantly influences weather patterns globally, posing challenges to the agricultural sector.

According to DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, the information caravan largely benefits farmers in the province, as well as implementing partners from the municipal- and provincial-level government units, as it provides an insight on the strategic measures, interventions, and programs that the DA has put in place against the said phenomenon.

Further, RED Pacamalan underscored the agency’s current push for a digitalized information system that allows the DA management to make informed decisions and determine how best to support stakeholders from the agri-fishery sector during La Niña.

He also reassured that all these efforts form part of the agency’s thrust for a more empowered agriculture and fisheries sector, under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr.

“We have to enhance our appreciation on the use of real-time information for planning, sound decision-making and in mobilizing agriculture investments. It’s going to be challenging, but it is never impossible. The government will do its best for the overall betterment of the agriculture sector,” the agri chief exec said.

During the event, Climate and Environment Risk Reduction Management Unit (CERRMU) focal person Sherafin Simon P. Calacar shared technical information and provided insights on the present climatic conditions, and various support and interventions from the DA relative to La Niña.

Salient points on animal health and diseases management, as well as crop pests and diseases management were also discussed by Veterinarian II Dianara Celeste O. Ua-O, DVM of the Regulatory Division, and Science Research Specialist II Donald G. Mangubat of the Regional Crop Protection Center, respectively.

The information caravan was also supported by the Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental, through its Provincial Agriculture Office, who apprised farmers and participants on the localized efforts and mitigating measures against La Niña.

To apprise farmers on DA’s insurance programs for crops and livestock, Philippine Crop Insurance, Corp.-10 (PCIC-10) Acting Insurance Underwriter I Ermie D. Jabagat also shared on the procedures and documentary requirements farmers must submit in order to avail of such support.

Farmers were also briefed on updates regarding the localized implementation of DA’s projects, programs, and activities in Misamis Oriental through the DA-10 Provincial Operations Center – Misamis Oriental, headed by its chief, Wilson V. Lagdamin.

Capping off the event, RAFIS chief Mary Grace B. Sta. Elena urged the farmers and partners from the LGUs to disseminate the information and knowledge shared during the event to their own communities, further underscoring the invaluable role played by said key actors in the agri sector.

“It is crucial for us to be well-informed and fully aware of La Niña and its impact on agriculture because we are the frontline workers; we are responsible for planting and caring for our [animals] and crops,” Sta. Elena said.

“To our LGU colleagues, you can assist in disseminating information and supporting our local farmers to be well-prepared. This ensures efficiency in readiness during threats, enabling us to produce high-quality products and secure decent incomes. Rest assured, the government is exerting its best efforts and will continue to support and assist you,” she added.

The event was also attended by the agri offices and fishery councils (AFCs), and members of various farmers’ cooperatives, associations (FCAs) from CdeO City, and the towns of Initao, Claveria, Salay, Lugait, Manticao, Balingoan, Jasaan, Tagoloan and Sugbongcogon.

DA-10 is slated to stage its Information Caravan in the provinces of Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Bukidnon, and Camiguin during the entire month of July.# (JRBT/GDA)