Agri-10 turns over P8-million worth of cacao processing facility to MCCGAC to boost their cacao production, processing and marketing activities.

MALAYBALAY CITY, BUKIDNON – To provide additional support in the expansion of cacao in the locality, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) turns over the P8-million cacao processing facility under the Cacao Community-Based Development Enterprise project to the City Local Government Unit (CLGU) of Malaybalay, on June 21, here.

DA-10 led by Bukidnon Provincial Operations Center chief Janet D. Lopez, DVM, and Agriculturist II Ronald Allan P. Camaddo handed over the certificate of turnover to Malaybalay mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran and Jerome N. Ramirez, MC Cacao Growers Agricultural Cooperative (MCCGAC) chair.

Camaddo shared that the project is funded under the agency’s High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) Regular Fund, which includes nursery establishment and planting materials, processing building, equipment, and administrative-related costs.

Included in the package of interventions are the provision of a P1-M processing facility, nursery establishment (P500K), solar dryer (P500K), hauling truck (P2-M), and P4-M for the roasting machine, huller, grinding machine, tempering machine, fermentation box, vacuum pack sealer, cooling rack, production table, moisture meter, grass cutter and 28,571 pieces of cacao seedlings.

Lopez added that the project signifies a great potential for the cacao industry to grow, at the same time increases the value of raw cacao beans through local processing, which benefits farmers and the community by boosting its profitability.

“I am very happy to those who have helped us. Dako kaayo kini nga tabang sa mga miyembro sa cooperative, mamahimo kaming malampuson pinaagi sa tabang sa ahensya ug sa lokal na gobyerno dinhi sa siyudad.” Ramirez said.

For his part, Mayor Pabillaran expressed his gratitude for the constant support of the DA-10 for the agricultural development of the farmers in the city and hopes that the project will aid in the marketing of cacao by obtaining a certified operating license to increase the facility’s credibility in the market.

Founded in 2017, MCCGAC is composed of 28 active members planting more than 50 hectares of cacao, and processing them into tablea for market in their locality.
Also present were the Department of Trade and Industry Bukidnon Provincial Director Famelah D. Villanueva, Department of Science and Technology-10 Bukidnon Provincial Director Ritchie Mae L. Guno, and other personnel from DA-10 and Malaybalay City Agriculture Office. # (MPMT)

AFF clusters under the Mt. Inayawan-Illana cluster convergence initiative undergo an enterprise assessment and evaluation in Iligan City.

ILIGAN CITY – After five years from its launching, the National Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development (NCI-SRD) conducted an enterprise assessment and evaluation for two Agriculture, Fishery, and Forestry (AFF) clusters in Mt. Inayawan – Illana Cluster Convergence Initiative on June 25-28, in this town.

The two clusters assessed are Buriasan Gamal Sapad Pili Dansalan (BUGAS PIDA) Marketing Cooperative of Sapad town and Barangay Calube Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BACFA-MPC) in Sultan Naga Dimaporo, both from Lanao del Norte.

In an interview with Marineh V. Ambrosio, Executive Assistant III of NCI-SRD, she said that the goal for conducting the activity is to fully assess the AFF clusters to be able to identify the necessary interventions that can help them with their respective enterprises.

“After the assessment report is furnished, we will endorse this to the agencies that are part of the convergence initiative which is DA, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). From there, we hope that they will identify interventions that their respective offices can offer for the AFF clusters to elevate their enterprise to a higher level.”

Luzviminda F. Tolentino of DA-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service and also a member of the Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery Enterprise Cluster and Business Development Component Working Group (AFFECBDO CWG), was glad that the members of the convergence are well represented for the said activity.

“I’m happy that everyone from the four agencies are present for the assessment. This is an assurance of our convergence efforts. I am hoping that the results of our assessments will soon be realized so we can help these clusters have a better way of living” Tolentino said.

Other AFFECBDO CWG members present in the assessment are Alvin Paul Dirain of DA, Randelle Ralph Canicosa of DENR, and Agnes U. Rojas of DAR. Regional counterparts form DA, DENR, DAR, and DILG are also present in the said assessment with the assistance from the Provincial Agriculture Office of Lanao del Norte.

The Convergence Area Development Plan of Mt. Inayawan-Illana Cluster, which comprises the municipalities of Kapatagan, Nunungan, Sapad, and Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte was launched in August 22, 2019.

The said cluster was also chosen by the NCI as one of the ten initial Local Convergence Agro-Enterprise Cluster pilot areas in the country. # (CRS)

Agri-10 through RED Pacamalan joins the initiative for the development of coconut and bamboo, attending the inter-agency collaboration for said commodities’ development enterprise in Agusan Norte.

BUTUAN CITY – Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan attends the Inter-Agency Collaboration for Coconut and Bamboo Development Enterprise for Agusan del Norte on June 28, at the Caraga State University, this city.

Agusan del Norte Vice-Governor Enrico R. Corvera shared that said initiative aims to gather the stakeholders to tap on their expertise as well as on programs and projects from agencies to develop the coconut and bamboo industry.

“We hope that our collaborative efforts will uplift the living conditions of farmers,” he added.

As guest speaker, RED Pacamalan shared his experience and best practices leading to the establishment of the Integrated Coconut Processing Plant in Balingasag town, Misamis Oriental, and Bamboo and Rice-Duck Farming system.

He said that the coconut processing plant will be operational by September this year which is projected to increase the buying price of coconut up to Php16.00 per piece.

The DA-10 official also shared plans to have this facility present in all provinces in region 10.

RED Pacamalan also highlighted the importance of geo-referencing and digitizing agri-data to help in making informed decisions such as geotagging coconut and bamboo trees to organize its supply.

Further, the director also noted that DA’s special projects such as the Mindanao Inclusive Agriculture Development Project (MIADP) and the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) particularly its enterprise development component (I-REAP) may also be tapped for the convergence initiative.

For his part, DA-13 Arlan M. Mangelen also conveyed, “I am excited on the inter-regional collaboration for high impact projects for coconut and bamboo industry development between the two [Caraga and Region 10] that will result in positive impact for the farmers.”

Also present in the activity are representatives from the provincial and municipal agriculture offices, Caraga State University, and from agencies such as the Philippine Coconut Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Technical Education And Skills Development Authority, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Tourism. # (AMBM)

The newly elected set of DAWEA officers take their oath of office administered by RED Pacamalan.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The newly elected set of officers for the Department of Agriculture – Women Employees Association (DAWEA-10), the women’s association of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) take their oath of office on July 1, at the agency compound, here.

Administered by the DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, the body led by its chairperson, Atty. Rachel L. Borres-Thurdis, was inducted earlier today, committing to fulfill one’s respective duties to the best of one’s abilities.

Anchored on the association’s continuous pursuit of empowering women within agriculture, Atty. Borres-Thurdis conveyed her gratitude to her predecessors for their remarkable service and also recognizing such as a challenge and a found confidence to uphold in the delivery of an outstanding performance under her helm.

“Let us continue to foster a safe and open environment within DAWEA, where expressing concerns is encouraged.” the DAWEA chairperson added.

Below is the complete list of DAWEA officers:

1. Atty. Rachel L. Borres-Thurdis – Chairperson
2. Milcah June S. Tenchavez – Vice-Chairperson
3. Angel Lou Grace A. Ral – Secretary
4. Jan Marrielle S. Salugsugan – Alternate Secretary
5. Delta F. Doria – Treasurer
6. Ivy S. Chua – Alternate Treasurer
7. Hershe B. Jabines – Auditor
8. Jeanlie C. Valenzuela – Alternate Auditor
9. Apple Caryl C. Novo – Education and Information Committee (Com)
10. Marnelly Ann P. Flores – Education and Information Com
11. Rosell P. Tuba-on – Means and Ways Com
12. Marilou C. Hebia – Means and Ways Com
13. Joanne L. Olson – Election Com
14. Mae Odimyrl A. Morales – Election Com
15. Daryl Jan S. Lorono – Public Relations Officer (PRO)-External
16. Rechelle B. Lacorte – PRO-Internal

Witnessed by Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Cora A. Dumayaca, the occasion also marked the distribution of certificates of appreciation to the outgoing DAWEA-10 officers headed by Razel Elaine Grace A. Cataluña.# (JLO/Photo credits: GDA)

Agri-10 orients the various agri enterprises on registration and certification process.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) holds an orientation on the registration/certification of farmers and fisherfolk enterprises, agri-based medium, small and micro enterprises, and young agripreneurs and awardees regionwide on June 28, here.

Spearheaded by the AMAD through its Agribusiness Promotion Section, said activity aims to assist agricultural stakeholders to provide comprehensive support, fostering an environment conducive to innovation, growth, and sustainability within the agricultural sector.

Agribusiness Promotion Section chief Rosell P. Tubaon mentioned, in her opening remarks, that in the dynamic landscape of any business, the registration and certification are crucial sets for establishing legal recognition and fostering trust with stakeholders.

“This is to also educate you on the critical aspects of enterprise registration and certification, highlighting the importance of compliances, the steps involved, and the benefits of obtaining proper certification,” she added.

Topics discussed are the Securities and Exchange Commission Registration and General Information Sheet, Business Registration and Certification of Intellectual Property, and Cooperative Registration.

Also covered were the Food and Drug Administration Overview and Basic Good Manufacturing Practices, Philippine Good Agricultural Practices Certification and Inspection Process, Organic Agriculture Practices, and Civil Society Organizations Registration.

Overall, the lined-up topics aim to equip said individuals and groups with the knowledge and processes to legally establish their farm business, meet quality and safety standards, protect their products, and organize collectively.

Said activity is further anchored on the DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr.’s plan in achieving food security and developing the agriculture and fisheries sector by strengthening its partnership with the farmers, fisherfolk, private sector and other stakeholders.# (JCSO)

DA-10 provides agri inputs for an Oro-based school’s food production initiatives in barangay Tignapoloan.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Contributing to climate change-proof initiatives, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) recently provided agricultural inputs to Man-ai National High School (MNHS) in Tignapoloan, here.

On July 4, DA-RFO 10 Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, Cora A. Dumayaca and High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) focal person, Kersten S. Pagalan, handed over agricultural assistance such as vegetable seeds and garden tools to Jovelrich D. Vipinosa, Teacher I of MNHS to bolster the school’s gardening efforts, critical in combating climate change and enhancing local sustainability.

Vipinosa emphasized the crucial role of these provisions in advancing their planting activities within their school grounds and supporting the predominantly indigenous community of Sitio Man-ai.

“Considering that they have limited resources, the DA-10’s assistance is a big help for us not only as partners [for food production initiatives], but to elevate as well the lives and livelihood of the residents of Man-ai,” he said.

Said endeavor also aligns with Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr.’s overarching vision to ensure food security and develop the agri-fishery sector, forming part of his nine-point plan by expanding agricultural areas, boosting production, and fostering partnerships with the private sector and other agricultural stakeholders.

DA-RFO 10 under the helm of Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan continues its commitment in ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and community resilience amidst environmental adversities.# (JRBT)

PSO Mindanao of PRDP spearheads a refresher course on MIS v2 SIDLAN in Davao City.

DAVAO CITY – The Monitoring and Evaluation Unit of the Mindanao Project Support Office (PSO Mindanao) conducted a refresher course on MIS v2 SIDLAN from July 3-5, 2024, in this city.

The initiative aims to facilitate a smooth transition into the Philippine Rural Development Project – Scale Up (PRDP Scale-Up).

System for Integrated Data and Leveraging Analysis (SIDLAN) Monitoring is an integral platform under the PRDP Scale-up that enhances project monitoring, evaluation, and management.

The upgraded Management Information System (MIS) platform will serve as a data bank for the next period of PRDP.

Launched in 2023, the platform will enable all consultants from the NPCO down to the RPCO level to monitor and update all PRDP subprojects and operational activities.

In an interview with PSO Mindanao MEL Unit Head Joseph Rico said that since SIDLAN is role-based, it is important to capacitate all units and components on the new system.

“Our project needs a system that we can use for reporting and proper data repository. SIDLAN will be the official online system for the upcoming PRDP Scale-up, so the Mindanao cluster wants all components and units to be ready and capable of operating the system,” Rico said.

He also added that SIDLAN will be the transition to digitalize manual documents to properly keep track of the timelines and accomplishments of the RPCO’s targets.

Representatives from the components and units from all six regions of Mindanao gathered for the three-day workshop.

For RPCO 10, reps from IPLAN, IBUILD, IREAP, Procurement, InfoACE, and the admin unit participated in the said training.

The refresher course for batches 2 and 3 workshops is scheduled later this month. #

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)