DA-10 hosts nationwide crop diversification, permaculture training for IPs

 

VALENCIA CITY, BUKIDNON — The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office X (DA-10) hosted the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K) program’s training on crop selection, diversification, agroforestry, and permaculture for Indigenous Peoples (IPs) on October 20 to 24, here.

Participated by IP representatives from 13 regions across the country, the training aims to establish sustainable and resilient agricultural systems while integrating and preserving indigenous knowledge in modern farming practices.

The IPs were upskilled on the core concept of agroforestry by integrating trees with crops and livestock, and permaculture which advocates minimal agricultural waste, biodiversity, and the use of local resources.

This practical application allows IPs to conceptualize and apply the layered and biodiverse farming system to their own ancestral domains.

Agustin R. Mercado, Jr., PhD, a renowned scientist specializing in multi-strata intensive cropping systems with a high capacity for carbon sequestration, served as the resource speaker.

He shared practical techniques, including Sustainable Land Management (SLM), Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT), and crucial principles of soil and water conservation for sloping lands.

A key component of the five-day training is the field visit to Mercado’s farm, where participants observed multi-strata farming techniques firsthand, such as intercropping cacao trees with vanilla.

Led by 4K Deputy Program Director Ronald C. Pamittan, the training mirrored the program’s thrust for strengthened partnership with the IP communities and technical experts in designing farming systems that promote ecological balance and long-term sustainability.

By strengthening the capacity of IP farmers and improving productivity, this initiative is designed to empower Indigenous communities to fully leverage available government resources and support.

This effort aligns with the president’s commitment to creating equal opportunities for Indigenous farmers and fostering stronger collaborations with government agencies. #(MAC)