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)

PITAC MPC acquires a P6.25-million hauling truck jointly funded by DA-10 and the coop.

MALAYBALAY CITY, BUKIDNON – The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) turns over a hauling truck to the Philippine International Travel Assistance Center (PITAC) Multipurpose Cooperative today, June 11, at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex, here.

Said assistance is funded under the KADIWA Financial Grant Assistance Program of the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) with a total project cost of Php6.25-million(M), of which the agri department granted Php5-M while the coop counterparted Php1.25 million.

DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan and AMAD chief Larry E. Paraluman led the turnover of the ten-wheeler wing van to the PITAC MPC team headed by Finance Manager Marietes G. Achacoso, in the presence of Bukidnon Acting Provincial Agriculturist Jacqueline Julia A. Lagamon and Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council chair Nilda B. Salas.

Achacoso shared that such initiative will greatly benefit their yellow corn marketing in terms of reducing transport costs, thus maximizing income of farmer-members.

This will greatly accelerate our operations since the cooperative has been buying corn produce from members who live in the different parts of Bukidnon and even as far as Lanao del Sur,” the finance manager added.

She furthered that PITAC MPC has forged marketing agreements with government offices and other private stakeholders.

Meanwhile, RED Pacamalan stated that such intervention is aligned with DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr.’s eight-point plan which aims to “develop efficient logistics systems for input and production output.”# (AMBM)

Agri-10 distributes assorted veggie seeds during the Info and Basic Services Caravan in Balingasag, Misamis Oriental.

BALINGASAG, MISAMIS ORIENTAL – As part of its commitment to community-centered governance, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10), helmed by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, joins the Information and Basic Services Caravan on June 14, held in Barangay Camuayan, here.

Spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency-10 (PIA-10) in collaboration with the Philippine Army (PA), Regional Association of Government Communicators (RAGCOM), and other regional agencies, the activity aimed to strengthen government efforts in ending local communist armed conflict (ELCAC) in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).

Lieutenant Colonel Christian C. Uy of the 58th Infantry Battalion (IB) highlighted one among the challenges faced by residents in sitios Kapukhawan, Lapu-Lapu, and Bagang, who often feel neglected by the government, making them more susceptible to recruitment by rebel groups.

“Ang among tahas mao ang pagpahibalo sa katawhan kung unsa ang nagkadaiyang programa ug mga proyekto sa kagamhanan, aron ilang masabtan kung unsaon ang pag avail pud sa maong mga programa,” Uy said.

(Our task is to inform the people of the various programs and projects of the government, so they will understand on how to avail of these programs.)

The caravan assisted 35 households, or around 135 individuals, most of whom depend on farming for their livelihood. For the agency’s part, DA-10 distributed 100 repacked assorted vegetable seeds, including kangkong, eggplant, pechay, squash, okra, ampalaya, and pole sitao.

In response to the assistance, Barangay Captain Weljohn S. Daguit expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the participating agencies.

“Magpasalamaton gyud ta sa nagkadaiyang agency nga nagkatigom gyud ta karon, na ang atong damgo nga mafeel gyud sa atong mga katawhan dinhi sa kabukiran bisan unsa man kalayo, naa ang gobyerno andam mutabang kanato,” Daguit said.

(Let’s truly be thankful for the different agencies that have gathered with us here today. Our dream of bringing help from the government closer to us, here in the countryside, has been achieved.)

Addressing the needs of such remote communities are also other NorMin agencies like TESDA, BFAR, Philhealth, DOH, DepEd, DENR, DSWD, DPWH, PNP, COMELEC, BJMP, DOST, BOC, DTI, DICT, and PAFCPIC, who have provided essential goods and services, ranging from food packs, school supplies, cash assistance, among others.# (JLPC)

Region 10’s YFC awardees, Veloso and Cabiladas from Lantapan, Bukidnon, showcase their agri-products during the 2024 MAFBEX.

PASAY CITY — In a bid to showcase local produce on the national stage, two awardees of the Department of Agriculture – Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) program from Northern Mindanao showcased their innovative agri-products during the launch of the Manila Food and Beverage Expo (MAFBEX) 2024 on June 12, at the World Trade Center, in this city.

Now in its 18th year, the annual food and beverage expo was participated in by the DA-Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), headed by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), during which the agency promoted contemporary culinary creations of promising young farmers and agri-products innovators from region 10.

Representing Northern Mindanao were agri-enterprises from Lantapan, Bukidnon, VeggieKrunch Crackers by YFC 2023 Provincial Awardee Loover B. Veloso and The Farmer’s Treats Mulberry jam by YFC 2023 Regional Awardee Kristine Joy A. Cabiladas, who were among the 232 brand exhibitors who participated in the national event.

Cabiladas, who received funding support worth P150k from the DA after emerging as a regional awardee of the YFC 2023 Start-up category, said that her enterprise has since grown and has been highlighted in various exhibitions, the latest of which is her participation in the MAFBEX assisted by the DA-10 AMAD.

“MAFBEX 2024 has opened opportunities for a wider market, learning, experiences, and connections with people from all over the Philippines. I am grateful for the trust the DA has given me to showcase the uniqueness and richness of our region,” Cabiladas said.

Meanwhile, Veloso, who also received funding support from DA worth P80k as a provincial awardee of the YFC 2023, said that the exhibit largely benefits his enterprise after having linked with prospective business partners.

“This event [has provided] a significant opportunity [for me] to promote my product on a national level. I have met many individuals interested in my product and found numerous potential suppliers for packaging and processing equipment. I am deeply grateful to the DA-AMAD for choosing me as one of the featured exhibitors at this year’s event,” Veloso said.

Also from the region, the First Community Cooperative – Integrated Processing Facility and Bestfriend Goodies also displayed their innovative beverages and food packs, as partner agri-based enterprises of the agency.

Said participation aligns with the agency’s goal of improving and expanding market access for agri-fishery enterprises, consistent with the policy thrusts of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. toward a ‘Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas’.# (GDA)

DA-10 supports the organic agriculture initiative of BISA, an organization of organic farmers and producers based in Balingasag town.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, and leaders of the Balingasag Initiative for Sustainable Agriculture (BISA) agreed to explore a common working ground to hype organic agriculture promotion in a meeting on June 5, at the DA-10 Compound, in this city.

BISA is an organization of organic farmers and producers based in Balingasag town, Misamis Oriental who advocates organic farming practices as a way of mitigating the effects of climate change to protect mother earth.

“We visited DA-10 simply to inform the department and Director Pacamalan that an organization of farmers and producers who are into organic practice is existing in Balingasag at the same time, we wanted to know the programs and projects of DA-10 that the organization can avail (as) assistance” said Marlyn F. Tagupa, BISA President.

Tagupa averred their plans and proposals warranted the support of the DA-10. She said a follow through meeting was scheduled by Dir. Pacamalan by the end of the month to validate their production area as potential site for Organic Rice Industry Development Plan.

To scale up the country’s agriculture sector, DA Secretary Francisco Laurel, Jr., recognized the importance of forging strong partnership with the private sector particularly for the expansion of agricultural production areas.

Chona H. Nacalaban, DA-10 Rice Program Focal Person, Marnie S. Suarez of the Organic Agriculture Program, and Engr. Romil G. Española of the Regional Agricultural Engineering Division also attended the meeting to provide technical insights on the undertaking.# (CRS)

DA eyes to strengthen the livestock industry in Region 10 through genetic improvement.

Malaybalay City, Bukidnon – Department of Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Ruminants, Benjamin C. Albarece, DVM, led the conduct of Genetic Improvement Program (GIP) Workshop: Dove-tailing the Backyard/Smallholder Raisers of Small Ruminants, here, on June 6-7.

Held at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex (NMACLRC), the workshop is participated by key personnel of the DA-Region 10’s (DA-10) Livestock Program, DA-attached agencies and private stakeholders of the region’s livestock industry.

As part of the agency’s effort to enhance the quality of goat and sheep herds in the region, DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan underscored that the activity is an avenue for the region’s livestock industry stakeholders to exchange knowledge, expertise, and best practices to optimize the genetic traits and reproductive performance of small ruminants.

“Knowing that there is a greater demand to improve our herd, whether large or small, I think this is the first step towards ensuring that we can have a sustained supply of improved genetic materials of our herd, especially for our small farmers,” he conveyed.

He also urged the participants to devise strategic plans for genetic improvement of the existing herd.

“I hope we don’t end up sitting here, but after this, maybe we can plan out what possible support we can organize so that we can make sure that there is an improvement in our genetic materials at the farmers’ field,” he averred.

For his part, Asec. Albarece substantiated the need for improved sheep and goat genetics to boost the region’s livestock industry.

“Improving the genetic qualities of sheep and goats is vital to increase productivity, sustainability, and profitability in the livestock industry,” he said.

In the workshop, the participants engaged in multilateral dialogue on key action areas such as Animal Genetic Improvement for Small Ruminants, Sustaining Breeding Programs, Clustering Backyard/Smallholder Raisers, Preventing Inbreeding, Buck Loans, Barangay Multiplier Farms, and the NorMin Genetic System.

The system necessitates the conduct of genetic testing to identify superior traits and potential genetic disorder within the herd. By incorporating these data into the breeding programs, the most desirable genetic traits can be optimized, ultimately leading to a stronger and more resilient herd.

This proactive approach reflects DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. ‘s priority agenda for improved agricultural production systems, particularly in the livestock sector.

Also present during the activity are DA-10 Field Operations Division chief Luz I. Guzman, Ph.D, Planning and Monitoring Evaluation Division chief Lana May S. Racines, Research Center for Upland Development chief Catalino S. Soriano, Jr. and other DA-10 staff.# (RDME)

The DA-NorMin delegation headed by RED Pacamalan attends the culmination of the Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month celebration, at the same time witnessing two of Region 10’s outstanding FCAs and FRED being honored for their invaluable contribution to the agri-fishery sector.

PASAY CITY — In a bid to showcase local produce on the national stage, two awardees of the Department of Agriculture – Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) program from Northern Mindanao showcased their innovative agri-products during the launch of the Manila Food and Beverage Expo (MAFBEX) 2024 on June 12, at the World Trade Center, in this city.

Now in its 18th year, the annual food and beverage expo was participated in by the DA-Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), headed by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), during which the agency promoted contemporary culinary creations of promising young farmers and agri-products innovators from region 10.

Representing Northern Mindanao were agri-enterprises from Lantapan, Bukidnon, VeggieKrunch Crackers by YFC 2023 Provincial Awardee Loover B. Veloso and The Farmer’s Treats Mulberry jam by YFC 2023 Regional Awardee Kristine Joy A. Cabiladas, who were among the 232 brand exhibitors who participated in the national event.

Cabiladas, who received funding support worth P150k from the DA after emerging as a regional awardee of the YFC 2023 Start-up category, said that her enterprise has since grown and has been highlighted in various exhibitions, the latest of which is her participation in the MAFBEX assisted by the DA-10 AMAD.

“MAFBEX 2024 has opened opportunities for a wider market, learning, experiences, and connections with people from all over the Philippines. I am grateful for the trust the DA has given me to showcase the uniqueness and richness of our region,” Cabiladas said.

Meanwhile, Veloso, who also received funding support from DA worth P80k as a provincial awardee of the YFC 2023, said that the exhibit largely benefits his enterprise after having linked with prospective business partners.

“This event [has provided] a significant opportunity [for me] to promote my product on a national level. I have met many individuals interested in my product and found numerous potential suppliers for packaging and processing equipment. I am deeply grateful to the DA-AMAD for choosing me as one of the featured exhibitors at this year’s event,” Veloso said.

Also from the region, the First Community Cooperative – Integrated Processing Facility and Bestfriend Goodies also displayed their innovative beverages and food packs, as partner agri-based enterprises of the agency.

Said participation aligns with the agency’s goal of improving and expanding market access for agri-fishery enterprises, consistent with the policy thrusts of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. toward a ‘Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas’.# (GDA)

Laguindingan corn farmers receive agri inputs from the DA-10 Corn program.

In time with the wet planting season, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) headed by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, turned over PhP4.9-million worth of agricultural inputs to corn farmers in Laguindangan, Misamis Oriental, on June 6.

Provided were 300 bags of hybrid white corn, 440 bags of hybrid yellow corn, 590 bags of complete fertilizer, and 2,400 packets of biofertilizer.

Laguindingan Mayor Diosdado T. Obsioma acknowledged the DA-10’s support to the LGU’s initiative in helping corn farmers in the town.

He also urged the local farmers to optimize utilization of inputs granted by the DA to augment their livelihood.

To increase the country’s agricultural production, DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., underscored the importance of strong partnership with the farmers and fisherfolk, and private and public sectors at the ground level.#(CRS/Photo credits: LGU Laguindingan)

BEARCO acquires P6.9-million worth of agri interventions from Agri-10.

DON CARLOS, BUKIDNON – The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) under the leadership of Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan turned over a P3.2-million hauling truck and P3.7-million recirculating dryer to BFI Employees Agrarian Reform Cooperative (BEARCO) on May 28, here.

Don Carlos mayor Ma. Victoria O. Pizarro, together with DA-10 Bukidnon Provincial Operations Center chief Janet D. Lopez, DVM, handed the certificate of turnover to Panchito A. Teruel, BEARCO chairperson.

In his helm of the DA, development of post-harvest systems and improved agricultural infrastructures are among the priority agenda of Secretary Francisco Laurel.

Teruel expressed his appreciation to the DA for its support in scaling up the cooperative’s post-harvest capacity to augment its members’ income.

[Dakong tabang ang mga makinarya nga gihatag sa DA-10 especially during sa first-cropping season sa bulan sa Hulyo ug kini mga panahona kay wet season, pinaagi niini masulbad na ang problema sa post-harvest]

“The machinery granted by the DA is of great help especially during the first-cropping season in July which also happens to be the wet season. With these projects, we can resolve our post-harvest problems and improve the quality of the crops” he said.

The recirculating dryer will provide high-quality dried corn that would sell at a higher price, while reducing losses in the post-harvest process. With their own hauling truck the BEARCO members will be able to save on transportation cost, thus helping them earn higher out of their farm produce.

Mayor Pizarro urged the cooperative to impose guidelines for the maintenance of the projects for sustained impact in the enhancement of agricultural productivity and reduction of post-harvest losses.

The said interventions were appropriated under the Agricultural Machinery, Equipment Facilities and Infrastructure funds of the DA-10’s Corn Program.

The BEARCO is a cooperative of 188 farmers who cumulatively tilled 50 hectares corn, and 15 hectares cassava areas in Barangay Maraymaray in Don Carlos town.#(MPMT)

DA-10 through the Corn program grants a farm tractor unit to KAMADA ARC coop.

BALINGOAN, MISAMIS ORIENTAL- To increase efficiency and productivity in agricultural operations, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) helmed by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan turned over more than P2.9-million (M) farm tractor to Kabangasan Mapua Dahilig Agrarian Reform Community Cooperative (KAMADA ARCC) on May 31, this town.

Weny N. Enterina, chair of KAMADA ARCC received the certificate of turnover for the 90-horsepower farm tractor along with its complete implements such as harrow, disc plow, and trailer.

According to Enterina, the granted machinery brings about numerous benefits that would contribute to the development and sustainability of their cooperative and the agricultural sector in the locality.

Likewise, he expressed his gratitude to the DA for the support which is really needed for their farmer-members planting cassava and corn.

“Sa pagka karun, ang among priority is matabangan nga maka angat pud ang among mga farmer. Pinaagi niining tractor, naa na gyud sila’y magamit sa panahon nga mag trabaho sila sa ilang umahan. Mas maayo man tong traktor kay dali raman makahawan sa yuta ug dali rasad ta makatanum, kaysa e kabaw nga dugay man mahuman,” he said

[As of now, our priority is to uplift the lives of our farmer-members. Through this tractor, they readily now have a machinery unit to help them in their farm work. The [use] of a tractor is much better for land preparation activities, and it paves for an easier and faster way to planting than using draft animals that usually takes a longer time to finish.]

The KAMADA ARCC is now on its 23rd year with a total of 14k members, tilling more than 15k hectares of land for cassava, corn, coconut, and abaca.

As part of their farm tractor availability scheme, coop members and non-members alike must shoulder the cost for the operator as well as gasoline. Accordingly, members must pay the coop 1k and P2k for non-members to muster funds for the unit’s repair and maintenance.

Funded under the DA-10 Corn program, the machinery is expected to scale up the farmers’ capacity and productivity through mechanized farming method.

To increase farmers’ income, DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. emphasizes the importance of a mechanized and modernized agriculture production system in his three-year, eight-point plan for agricultural development.# (RDME)