Buk’non IP farmers learn skills in corn prod’n, postharvest technologies

MALAYBALAY CITY, BUKIDNON — Noting the potential of Indigenous People (IP) communities to contribute toward sustainable food production, the Department of Agriculture – Northern Mindanao (DA-10) through the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K) program, spearheaded a training on corn production and postharvest technologies on November 20-21, at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex, here.

Gilbert A. Apa-ap, 4K program coordinator said the capbuild aims to empower local IP corn farmers to boost their corn production in terms of quality and quantity by enhancing their crop cultivation, harvest and postharvest techniques, thereby translating to increased income and upliftment in the standard of living of the same.

Attended by 25 IP farmers from the towns of Bukidnon, the training staged lectures and participatory discussions on Corn Production with emphasis on the selection of good quality seeds, land preparation activities, planting, and care and management of the crop. Likewise, it tackled on Nutrient Deficiencies, Signs and Symptoms, Pest and Diseases Management, and Postharvest Management.

Select participants came from six IP farmers’ organizations, namely: Panalsalan Dagumbaan Talaandig Tribe Association (PADATTA) and Baclig Farmers’ Association of Maramag; Pigbuligaan Farmers’ Association, Batiaw Upland Farmers’ Association and Kahugpungan sa Mag-uuma sa Ulayanon of Impasugong; and Minole Tigwahanon Manobo Matigsalug Tribal Association (MINTIGMAMATA) of San Fernando.

Marking as tenth conducted training of the program for this year, 4K is a locally funded program catering to the agricultural productivity needs of IPs within their ancestral domains, with the ultimate goal of generating more jobs within their community.# (JLO/Photos supplied)