DA-NorMin pushes market-driven, inclusive approach for Halal Slaughterhouse project in Iligan City

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Agriculture – Northern Mindanao (DA-NorMin), through the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Scale-Up, is pushing a market-driven and inclusive approach for the implementation of a Double AA Halal Slaughterhouse with Cold Storage in Iligan City, aimed at expanding market access and strengthening the local livestock industry.

During a coordination meeting with the Iligan City Local Government Unit (CLGU) on January 7, the meeting focused on strategies to strengthen Halal-compliant agri-industrial facilities in the region while promoting sustainable production and market expansion for livestock stakeholders, and position Iligan City as a model for sustainable Halal agri-enterprise development in Northern Mindanao.

DA Undersecretary for Mindanao concerns, Engr. Zamzamin L. Ampatuan, emphasized that while the facility will strictly adhere to Halal protocols, its output will be positioned as “meat for all” ensuring broader market access and long-term viability.

The agri official conveyed that previous experiences showed that exclusive Halal facilities without diversified market access often struggled to attract adequate livestock supply.

Reportedly, the slaughterhouse project will operate as a stand-alone economic enterprise under the Iligan City government and will follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), with plans to pursue ISO certification to guarantee quality and competitiveness.

To ensure compliance with local regulations, the facility will adhere to Iligan City Ordinance No. 24-7458, also known as the Comprehensive Halal Ordinance, which requires establishments – including groceries, supermarkets, meat shops, and convenience stores – to provide dedicated halal lanes, with separate carts, tools, weighing scales, and checkout counters exclusively for Halal-certified products to prevent cross-contamination and uphold Muslim dietary laws.

Highlighting DA-10’s commitment, Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan underscored the agency’s support to the project.

“We are finalizing the planning and uploading of project components, managing the entire process, and addressing issues to ensure timely implementation under the PRDP framework,” Pacamalan said.

Set for implementation this year, the project aims to strengthen livestock production, processing, and marketing, while supporting local producers. It also aligns with the current administration’s commitment to fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agricultural development. # (NQA)

DA-10, rice stabilization concerned agencies conduct joint price surveillance amid holiday surge

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — In a proactive measure to safeguard consumer welfare against potential market volatility, especially this yuletide season, the Department of Agriculture – Region 10 (DA-10), through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), conducted today, Dec. 23, a joint inspection with local regulatory bodies for rice price monitoring and inspection in a major rice repository in this city.

This enforcement operation aims to ensure affordability and accessibility of the nation’s primary staple during the heightened demand.

Said inspection was coordinated with the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), National Food Authority (NFA), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Local Government Unit (CLGU) of CdeO, and the city’s Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC).

Through this inter-agency coordination, the DA-10 and the team eye to deter unwarranted price spikes and hoarding, ensuring that festivities are not affected by market manipulation.# (BJCE)

DA-10 strengthens rice monitoring, empowers agri techs via digital reporting

MALAYBALAY CITY, BUKIDNON — Seeking to streamline the efficiency of agricultural data collection, consolidation, and case monitoring, the Department of Agriculture – Northern Mindanao (DA-10), through its Provincial Operations Center (POC) of Bukidnon, capacitates agricultural extension workers (AEWs) and local farmer technicians (LFTs) on “Digital Rice Reporting,” held on December 18 to 19 in the city.

Forty AEWs and LFTs across the province were trained on the mechanisms of the platforms and underwent the processes of rice reporting.

This training aims to address the need for timely data in the province’s agricultural sector. By transitioning from paper-based manual logging to streamlined, digitalized rice case reporting, the DA-10 targets for real-time reporting and enhanced intervention mapping.

As the training concluded, participants are expected to complete digital reports in their local areas and recommend actionable items from the said implementations for improvement.

Through this initiative anchored on the current administration’s investment to modernize agriculture, the DA-10 is pushing for the digitalization of all its primary services for monitoring and consolidation, safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers through more responsive and data-driven government support. # (BJCE)

Agri-10 honors 2025 retirees for decades of service

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — In line with the Civil Service Commission’s thrust of humanizing the bureaucracy per Memorandum Circular No. 7, Series of 1998, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (Agri-10) paid tribute to its 2025 retirees in recognition of their decades-long contribution to agri-fishery development in Northern Mindanao during a ceremony held on December 12 in this city.

Leading the rite were Agri-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, together with OIC-Regional Technical Director for Operations Viralou L. Tuquib, DVM, and OIC-Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Lana May S. Racines, who also chairs the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) Committee, the organizer of the event.

This year’s honorees include:

– Carlota S. Madriaga, Director III – 44 years
– Eduardo N. Pit, PhD, Chief Agriculturist – 39 years
– Chirly L. Galgo, Farm Worker I – 38 years
– Jaime P. Jerusalem, Farm Worker I – 36 years
– Janet D. Lopez, Agricultural Center Chief II – 35 years
– Dionesio B. Cagampang, Electronics and Communications Equipment Technician II – 33 years
– Tomas I. Manatad, Security Guard I – 26 years
– Wendelyn T. Toraja, Science Research Specialist II – 10 years

RTD Tuquib cited the retirees as role models who shaped the work ethic and service culture of Agri-10. “Sila atoang mga models ug examples nga atong gisundog—sila ang nagtudlo unsaon pagpanarbaho ug paghatag serbisyo sa atong kliyente sa DA,” she said. The director added that as they transition out of government service, they may need time to adjust after identifying with their roles in work for so many years.

In his message, RED Pacamalan commended the retirees for their resilience throughout changing political and institutional landscapes. “You have worked under different presidents, secretaries, and regional executive directors. Whether those years were the best or the most challenging, what matters is that you endured various types of leadership,” he said.

He further lauded their passion and commitment: “Your tireless efforts have cultivated growth and nurtured progress in the DA. Your legacy will inspire the younger generation. May your retirement be a time of peace, joy, and fulfillment.” Pacamalan also urged existing personnel to embrace the ongoing challenge of ensuring food security and supporting farmers, noting that expectations continue to grow. “People look to us as models and mentors. Always aspire to do more, go beyond what we’re used to, and find value in what you do. Let us work as a team and strive to stand out among all regions,” he added.

Meanwhile, RTD Racines acknowledged the often-unrecognized sacrifices of government workers. “Ang dedication sa atong mga government service men and women, grabe kaayo! Many work tirelessly without acknowledgment—but your service to the government, and the families waiting for you at home, is worth all the sacrifice,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Director III Carlota S. Madriaga reflected on their shared journey. “Resilient gyud mi, mao pod ang gibati sa akong mga fellow retirees. We owe much to our agency and to our children—because of DA, we stayed. The dedication and compassion for service, especially working with our farmers, kept us going,” she said. She also enjoined her fellow retirees to embrace their new paths: “May your next journeys be fulfilling. Enjoy your journey at your own pace.”

As a gesture of appreciation, each retiree received cash gifts, plaques and tokens honoring their longstanding public service, witnessed by the Agri-10 Management Committee and other personnel.

This year’s celebration carried the theme: “DA-10 Bringing Back the NINE-T: Nurturing Integrity and Nourishing Excellence – Together.”# (JLO)

DA-10 partners with Argentina and Bionova experts to elevate NorMin’s cattle industry

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Aiming to improve bovine genetics in Northern Mindanao, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) welcomed representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture of Argentina and Bionova for a consultation meeting on December 4 at the DA-10 compound, this city.

DA-RFO 10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan and OIC-Regional Technical Director for Operations Viralou L. Tuquib, DVM met with Leandro Waisman, Minister Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of the Argentine Republic and Alfonso Serrano, chief technical officer of Bionova, to explore opportunities to introduce advanced breeding technologies, particularly on embryo transfer and genetic nucleus development.

Director Pacamalan expressed his interest in the partnership, noting its potential to boost the region’s beef and dairy industry. Likewise, he reaffirmed the agency’s commitment on regulatory and technical requirements to support the initiative, while the Ministry of Argentina and Bionova offers knowledge transfer and the technology.

The collaboration intends to support cattle herd improvement in the region, benefitting both commercial farms and smallholder livestock raisers.# (AMBM)

DA-10 honors 55 tenured employees for years of government service

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Agriculture – Region 10 (DA-10) formally recognized 55 of its employees with loyalty awards for their commitment and contributions to public service within the agri sector.

Adhering to the Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 6, Series of 2002, which mandates honoring civil servants, the agency, through its Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) committee, held the Loyalty Service Awards ceremony today, December 5, in this city.

The ceremony recognizes civil servants who have rendered continuous and satisfactory service for 10, 35, and 40 years in government service.

Guided by the theme, “DA-10 bringing back the NINE-T: Nurturing Integrity and Nourishing Excellence – Together,” the event encapsulates the organizational values championed by the awardees.

In his congratulatory address, DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan lauded the awardees for their enduring commitment to public service.

“For the loyalty awardees, always aspire to find your value beyond what you are fighting now. Congratulations and thank you very much for your service,” the agri executive said.

The awardees are comprised of technical and administrative officers, specialists, and engineers across multiple divisions, including the Administrative and Finance Division (AFD), Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), Field Operations Division (FOD), Integrated Laboratories Division (ILD), Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division (PMED), Regional Agricultural Engineering Division (RAED), Regulatory Division, Research Division, and the Office of the Regional Director (ORD).

Here are the following awardees:

40 Years:
1. Luz I. Guzman, PhD – Development Management Officer V (FOD)

35 Years:
2. Janet D. Lopez, DVM – Agricultural Center Chief II (FOD)
3. Catalino S. Soriano Jr. – Agricultural Center Chief II (Research)

10 Years:
4. Shella Marie Concepcion D. Abejo – Administrative Officer II (AFD)
5. Karina Molawin E. Andres – Administrative Officer II (AFD)
6. Lester B. Apag, DM – Administrative Officer V (AFD)
7. Juradin H. Cabana, CPA – Accountant III (AFD)
8. Shem S. de Gracia – Administrative Officer V (AFD)
9. Patrick Ian F. Pedarse, CPA – Chief Administrative Officer (AFD)
10. Jaypee R. Pichay, PhD – Administrative Officer IV (AFD)
11. Mary Jane A. Sayson – Administrative Officer I (AFD)
12. Alta L. Viña – Administrative Officer I (AFD)
13. Mae Carmela G. Fabela – Market Specialist III (AMAD)
14. Rosell P. Tuba-on – Supervising Science Research Specialist (Research)
15. Richan D. Lacanaria – Senior Agriculturist (FOD)
16. Mark Anthony D. Lagamon – Agriculturist II (FOD)
17. Kersten S. Pagalan – Agricultural Center Chief III (Research)
18. Engr. Abdulharis P. Paporo – Agricultural Center Chief II (FOD)
19. Jesie S. Virtudez – Agricultural Technician II (FOD)
20. Silvan B. Acas – Laboratory Aide II (ILD)
21. Oryza Kristy B. Baylo, DVM – Veterinarian IV (ILD)
22. Atty. Rachel L. Borres-Thurdis – Chemist II (ILD)
23. Razel Elaine Grace A. Cataluña – Chemist II (ILD)
24. Bensive M. Gabitano – Agriculturist I (ILD)
25. Julesbean Caesar C. Maquiling, DVM – Veterinarian III (Regulatory)
26. Johanna C. Pichay – Chemist III (ILD)
27. Apple Caryl C. Novo – Computer Maintenance Technologist II (PMED)
28. Christian L. Padrones – Information Systems Analyst II (PMED)
29. Engr. Rona M. Quiao – Project Evaluation Officer III (PMED)
30. Engr. Junel W. Ablanque – Engineer IV (RAED)
31. Engr. Mary Ann C. Adella – Engineer III (RAED)
32. Engr. Romil G. Española – Engineer III (RAED)
33. Engr. Liezel D. Sios-e – Engineer II (RAED)
34. Engr. Alden C. Tapio – Engineer III (RAED)
35. Rosalio M. Cocamas Jr. – Science Research Specialist I (ORD)
36. Tito P. Manigos Jr. – Senior Science Research Specialist (ORD)
37. Jocelyn F. Octat – Senior Science Research Specialist (ORD)
38. April Hope E. Panis – Science Research Specialist III (ORD)
39. May Cristine O. Arcojada – Agriculturist II (Regulatory)
40. Rhea Villa R. Chiu, DVM – Veterinarian III (Regulatory)
41. Caren A. Libre – Agriculturist II (Regulatory)
42. Jan D. Melicor – Agriculturist II (Regulatory)
43. Christine Jane L. Quiamco – Agriculturist II (Regulatory)
44. Novie T. Suello – Senior Agriculturist (Regulatory)
45. Maria Teresa C. Cagas – Science Research Specialist I (Research)
46. Jolee D. Develos – Science Research Specialist II (Research)
47. Paulo Miguel A. Diputado – Science Research Specialist II (Research)
48. Samuel C. Natindim, Jr. – Agricultural Center Chief III (Research)
49. Renante E. Oberes – Farm Superintendent III (Research)
50. Marivic L. Paday – Senior Science Research Specialist (Research)
51. Engr. Ronald J. Pasilan – Senior Science Research Specialist (Research)
52. Joel L. Pueblos – Farm Superintendent II (Research)
53. Ailene B. Talara – Science Research Specialist II (Research)
54. Wendelyn T. Toraja – Science Research Specialist II (Research)
55. May Shell E. Tumilap – Senior Science Research Specialist (Research)

The DA-10 remains committed to fostering a culture of excellence and integrity among its personnel to ensure the continued delivery of quality public service within the agri sector.# (BJCE)

Aggie 10 F2C2 prompts rice clusters to adopt B2B agri-marketing</h6

Cagayan de Oro City – The Department Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (Aggie 10) urged rice clusters in Northern Mindanao to adopt business-to-business marketing strategies to foster sustainable growth in rice production and trade.

In the recently concluded Rice Clusters Forum organized by the Aggie 10 Farm and Fishery Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) Program in time with the National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM), leaders of rice farmers’ associations and cooperatives in the region were told to embrace market-first farming system by forging partnership with institutional buyers.

Through the forum the Aggie NorMin F2C2 bridged the rice cluster-leaders and the DA partner government and private partners.

In said forum, the DSWD Region 10 conveyed the salient features of the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Program, through which the DSWD may contract rice clusters in the region to supply rice for its feeding program. Under the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), rice farmers may avail of a livelihood package for rice production and processing to augment their livelihood.

The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) also presented the financial assistance program offered by the government for individual rice farmers and their associations and cooperatives, as an added financial resource for increased production.

The rice farmers were also apprised on the national and regional rice industry situation by the DA-10 Rice program, highlighting the MASAGANA rice industry development strategy to rev up the country’s rice production – MAtatag (resilience and climate adaptation), Sama-sama (farm clustering and consolidation), GAnado (farmer engagement and motivation), and NApapanahon (digital transformation and timely interventions).

In his message, Aggie 10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan urged rice farmers to shun the use of inorganic farm inputs, stating dependency to such inputs will result in higher cost of rice production. Instead, he called on the rice farmers to transition to rice-duck integrated farming system to mitigate rising inputs’ costs while producing safer rice for local consumption.

To date, the DA-10 F2C2 has organized 89 rice clusters across the 5 provinces of Northern Mindanao. Each cluster is composed of a group of rice farmers tilling an aggregate of 100 hectares rice area, at minimum.

Through the F2C2, the DA pushed for farmers and fishers’ organizations to form a cluster and consolidate their products to achieve economies of scale, strengthen their bargaining power, and gain better market access to scale up their production and income. # (ATT)

DA-10 advances organic agriculture through 1st reg’l sustainable organic food systems conference

BALINGASAG, MISAMIS ORIENTAL – To further strengthen the promotion and adoption of organic agriculture in Northern Mindanao, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), through its Organic Agriculture Program, staged the 1st Regional Sustainable Organic Food Systems on November 25 to 27, in this town.

Anchored on the theme “Creating Synergies to Co-Create Regional Organic Agriculture Development (ROAD) in Northern Mindanao,” the conference highlighted key discussions and thematic sessions focused on integrating organic agriculture into the farming practices of its diverse stakeholders.

A major highlight of the event was the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro and the DA-10 Organic Agriculture Program to co-create sustainable organic family farms. The agreement was formalized by DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan and Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, with OIC-RTD for Operations Viralou L. Tuquib, DVM, MPM, and Mark Anthony C. Lagamon, DA-10 Organic Agriculture Focal Person, as witnesses.

In his message, RED Pacamalan emphasized the need for stronger collaboration and measurable outcomes. “[Let us] make this conference a springboard [to] create a bigger impact in organic agriculture. Let’s plan and outline specific interventions that are vital for DA’s support — those that deliver practical impact.”

He further shared that the DA-10 targets to transform 100 hectares in Balingasag into an organic duck farm, reinforcing the region’s direction toward integrated organic systems.

Organic practitioner Roberto E. Jomen III of Vege-To-Go Plant-Based expressed optimism about expanding the reach of organic agriculture. “I am happy that we are bringing organic agriculture to a wider audience, not only farmers. I hope that next time, we can also include doctors, health practitioners, and nutritionists — those who can help promote organic foods to the masses. Instead of synthetic medicines, let’s advocate for alternative lifestyles through quality organic foods,” he said.

The next Regional Sustainable Organic Food Systems Conference is set to take place in 2026, in Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte.

This initiative supports the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in advancing inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agricultural development, ensuring that communities benefit from healthier food systems and improved livelihood opportunities.# (NQA)

Agri-NorMin joins KADIWA ng Pangulo Expo 2025

INTRAMUROS, MANILA — Aiming to strengthen market linkages and promote locally sourced agri-fishery products, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), participated in the KADIWA ng Pangulo (KNP) Expo 2025 on November 28 to 30 at Foro de Intramuros, here.

The annual expo forms part of the President’s flagship initiative to strengthen food security, expand livelihood opportunities, and support both producers and consumers.

This year’s KNP Expo featured expanded market linkages, innovations in food delivery systems, and the continued promotion of the P20 “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” Rice Project under the Rice-for-All Program.

In his message, DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. underscored the importance of the event, stating, “Today, we open the Kadiwa Expo 2025, a flagship platform for affordable food, stronger market linkage, and well-deserved recognition for our food producers — magsasaka, mangingisda, and micro entrepreneurs.” He added, “After the success of last year’s expo, we return with bolder ambition. Sa pagtutulungan, mas mapadali ang daloy ng sariwa at abot-kayang pagkain sa mamimili.”

Representing Northern Mindanao, DA-10 AMAD featured locally sourced products through two participating exhibitors. BALUGTO HOPE Agriculture Cooperative showcased fresh agricultural products, while VjANDEP presented its processed food products from the region.

The participation of DA-10 in the national expo reflected its continued efforts to help local farmers and agripreneurs tap wider markets, in support of the administration’s thrust toward a stronger and more inclusive food system for producers and accessible, quality food for consumers. # (EJLG)

Aggie-10 hosts Be Riceponsible info advocacy contests to wrap 2025 Nat’l Rice Awareness Month

Cagayan de Oro City – To fuel youth involvement in the nation’s campaign for responsible rice consumption, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (Aggie-10) holds Be Riceponsible information advocacy competitions for senior high school students to culminate the 2025 National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM).

Spearheaded by the Aggie-10, through its Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Section (RAFIS) and Rice Program, participating students in Cagayan de Oro City competed in the NRAM Photo, Reels, and Agri Trivia contests, putting to the test their ingenuity and knowledge in championing the call for responsible rice consumption.

On November 28, winners of the said competitions were lauded as follows:

REELS CONTEST

Winner: “Think Twice, Save Rice”
Cagayan de Oro National High School – Senior High School
(Gian Carlo D. Delastrico, Raymond L. Espinosa, and Queenie Jannah L. Nuñez)
Coach: Earl Vann S. Urbano

2nd Placer: “It’s Not Just a Grain, There’s More to Gain”
Lapasan National High School
(Jessie D. Montano, Angel Trish B. Canque, and Elaiza B. Paguidopon)
Coach: Lucita Mae B. Aguelo

3rd Placer: “Butil”
Lumbia National High School
(Kristine Mae P. Magdadaro, Aira Jane C. Maro, and John Paul D. Meltrilez)
Coach: Mauro M. Mendez

PHOTO CONTEST

Winner: “Grain of Hope, Hand of a Nation”
Janine Claire Q. Villaluna of Lapasan National High School
Coach: Lucita Mae B. Aguelo

2nd Placer: “Butil”
Arnelyn A. Corral of Lumbia National High School
Coach: Mauro M. Mendez

3rd Placer: “Care for Every Grain”
Xander S. Vasquez of PHINMA – Cagayan de Oro College, Senior High School Department
Coach: Najma L. Asum

AGRI TRIVIA CONTEST

Winner:
Gusa Regional Science High School (Nickee T. Dampal, Sabrina G. Curit, and Neeka Ella P. Guillero)
Coach: Jenifer A. Montes

2nd Placer:
Lumbia National High School (Ara Lou P. Poblete, Reah Joy S. Kaki, and Marianne Dennisse E. Rivera)
Coach: Mauro M. Mendez

3rd Placer:
Macabalan National High School (Analy Obenita, Peter John Cantong, and Robemie Paquit Catayoc)
Coach: Maricris N. Makiji

Through the Be Riceponsible info advocacy competitions, the Aggie-10 urges the youth to take an active role in creating awareness on the importance of the rice industry to the nation’s economy, and advocate proactive measures to support Filipino rice farmers.

The Aggie-10 also rolled out regional NRAM information caravan, Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) distribution, and the Regional Rice Clusters Forum to highlight the 2025 NRAM.

NRAM is observed every November by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 524, series of 2004.# (ATT/Photo credits: BJCE, MAC)