Paraguya from Impasugong, Bukidnon bags national award from DA’s YFC program.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Leon Vincent O. Paraguya, owner of Waggling Cattle Enterprise receives P300K cash grant after being declared as one of the national awardees under the Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) Start-Up component 2023 of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

During the national awarding ceremony, held at the DA-Philippine Rice Research Institute in the Science City of Muñoz recently, DA Undersecretary for High Value Crops Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero delivered the message of Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr.

“This event marks a significant moment for our agriculture community, working in agriculture is not easy yet the dedication has been instrumental in achieving the objectives and the essential needs of farmers and fisherfolk.

Today’s agricultural society has unveiled the positive outcomes and benefits brought forth by our new generation. To this batch of YFC awardees, establishing a business is one of the hardest things to do. Yet, you remain patient and tenacious throughout your journey in generating new products, services, production processes, and organizational methods for the development of your endeavors.” the agri chief conveyed.

For her part, Senator Imee Marcos said that she hopes that the YFC challenge will continue to thrive and prosper, expecting constant dealings, help, and affirmation that the Filipino farmer can afford to feed his or her fellow Filipinos as well.

“Ang mga batang magsasaka ang siya’ng good news ng agriculture. Mayroon pa rin mga kabataan na ninanais na manatiling mambubukid, mangingisda, processor at iba pang negosyante hinggil sa ating agrikultura,” the official added.

The YFC encourages young people to get involved in agriculture, agribusiness, and agri-entrepreneurship as agents and partners for sustainable development, and empowers young farmers and fisherfolk to be active partners in food security and agricultural development and modernization.# (MPMT/Photo credits: DA-AFID)

Agri-10 through its Regulatory Division meets with the attached agencies and bureaus, as well as concerned partners from the local government for a better implementation of animal welfare regulations in Region 10.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 reiterates its commitment to ensure the region’s compliance with regulations and standards on animal welfare and management.

On June 19, DA-10 through its Regulatory Division convened with representatives from its attached agencies and bureaus, as well as concerned partners from the local government, to discuss the implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act 8485, otherwise known as the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestock Research Complex (NMACLRC) in Dalwangan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

On behalf of DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, NMACLRC chief Carmelito R. Lapoot welcomed the participants and enjoined their full participation to the activity, underscoring the same as a vital mechanism by which the Department is able to ensure the coordinated inter-agency approach toward animal welfare and safety in Northern Mindanao.

He added that the activity guides the concerned government instrumentalities to ensure that government-owned facilities remain as ‘model’ establishments for partners and stakeholders from the private sector.

“Through this activity, we at the DA can revisit our compliance to animal industry standards and regulations, which determines our performance through in-house and external evaluations. Perhaps we can discuss these here today and agree on the ways forward, especially on areas of concern we may identify along the way,” Lapoot said.

DA-10 Veterinarian II and AWA focal person Dianara Celeste O. Ua-o, DVM apprised the participants on the salient provisions of the AWA, as well as the duties and functions of the DA Committee on Animal Welfare, composed of government agencies, professional organizations, and non-governmental organizations with a shared interest in animal welfare.

Meanwhile, Registration and Licensing Section chief Rhea Villa R. Chiu, DVM, also discussed the minimum standards for the welfare of animals, as well as the requirements for the registration of government-owned and operated animal facilities.

Chiu said that, pursuant to DA Administrative Circular 4 series of 2015, a Certificate of Registration issued by the DA-Bureau of Animal Industry is a prerequisite for all animal facilities to legally operate. These include but are not limited to animal control facilities, laboratory animal facilities, pet shops, aviary, cattery, as well as hog, poultry, cattle, and goat farms.

Chiu added that interested groups or individuals may coordinate with the Regulatory Division for registration assistance, animal facility inspection, and issuance of the aforementioned certificate.

Further, participants were also briefed on ASEAN biosecurity management protocols for commercial farming which include basic concepts of farm-level biosecurity, diseases of concern and bioexclusion and biocontainment measures, and operational biosecurity procedures which outline farm, personnel, and operational standards.

Participants were also able to discuss the practical application of said technical guidance and concerns on its implementation at the local level through the activity’s workshop and open forum component.

Present during the event were representatives from the DA-10 Research Center for Hillyland Development, Research Center for Upland Development, and the NMACLRC; representatives from the NorMin offices of the National Dairy Authority, Philippine Carabao Center, and Bureau of Animal Industry – National Beef Cattle Research and Development Center; and the Provincial Veterinary Office of Bukidnon.# (GDA)

On its 126th founding anniversary, DA, including its regional field office in NorMin, through RED Pacamalan reaffirms the agency’s commitment to strengthen its delivery of service to farmers and other agricultural stakeholders.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Agriculture in Northern Mindanao (DA-10) will continue to strengthen its services delivery to stakeholders from the region’s agriculture and fisheries sector.

This, DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan reaffirmed, during a special ceremony held on June 24, at the agency compound here, in line with the national celebration of DA’s 126th founding anniversary.

In his opening message, RED Pacamalan said that the anniversary celebration is an opportune time for the DA-10 management and workforce to revisit the reforms, refinements, and innovations it has implemented in its delivery of agri-fishery services to stakeholders in the region during the past years.

“We will make this anniversary as a [time to look back] on the changes that we have done, the things we need to improve, and the things we need to know better [for the benefit] of our farmers and fisherfolk in the region,” the agri exec said.

Cagayan de Oro City Councilor Yvy B. Emano, who spoke as the event’s guest of honor, extended her congratulations for the agency’s extensive years in service and underscored the Department’s interventions as largely beneficial to local farmers and fisherfolk, particularly in remote areas of the city where interventions for agriculture are well needed.

Founded as the Department of Agriculture and Manufacturing, DA became one of the first government agencies created just eleven days after the proclamation of the Philippine Independence in 1898.

As the lead government instrumentality for advancing the interests of Filipino farmers, fisherfolk, and the agri-fishery sector, DA’s engagement with its partners and stakeholders is guided by the policy thrusts of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., particularly through the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ brand of governance.

In a message addressed to the agency’s workforce, Sec. Laurel, Jr. recognized the men and women behind the agency’s strides in bolstering the country’s agri-fishery development.

“Sa selebrasyong ito, mahalaga na tandaan natin ang malaki nating papel sa pagbuo ng isang matatag at maunlad na bansa. Nais ko pong bigyang pugay ang bawat isa sa inyo sa DA family na nagsilbi at patuloy na nagsisilbi para sa magsasaka, mangingisda, at iba pang stakeholders ng agriculture sector,” the agriculture secretary said.

“Malaking bahagi po kayo kaya patuloy tayong nakakapaghatid ng sapat na pagkain sa bawat hapag ng pamilyang Pilipino. You are the unsung heroes behind the achievements of this Department,” the agri chief also said.

Acting through the same spirit, DA-10, through its Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE), has also recognized outstanding individuals from its workforce for their display of exemplary qualities and performance throughout their years in public service.

In support of said event, the DA Employees Association – Region 10 (DAEA-10) also staged its KADIWA Bazaar, through which agency employees and the public may purchase various agri-fishery commodities and products at economical prices.

Supporting the regional participation of the Department’s 126th founding anniversary is Regional Technical Director for Operations Carlota S. Madriaga and RTD for Research and Regulations Cora A. Dumayaca, members of the Management Committee (ManCom), and personnel and support staff of the DA-10.# (GDA; Photo credits to JLPC, JCSO, JRBT)

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. #