THE DEPARTMENT of Agriculture (DA) concluded the final leg of its Information Caravan at Camp General Manuel T. Yan Sr. in Mawab, Davao De Oro on Sept. 27, drawing 654 attendees, primarily farmers and food producers.
Major Mark Anthony Tito, the 10th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) chief, said the DA subject matter experts delivered lectures on various aspects of agribusiness, including farming techniques, crop characteristics, and proper livestock handling for propagation.
Additionally, the agency emphasized the importance of the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA), offered strategies to combat the challenges posed by El Niño, and highlighted available credit and support grants for food producers.
Further, the DA distributed mushroom fruiting bags, vegetable and corn seeds, and fertilizers to support the farmers in their endeavors.
Adora D. Rodriguez, assistant chief of agribusiness and marketing assistance–Agribusiness Investment and Promotion Division (AMAS-AIPD), reiterated the essential role of farmers in the overall development and well-being of society.
“We want our fellow countrymen to have livelihood opportunities. By engaging in activities like this and informing farmers about government projects, including the involvement of the military, we can improve their livelihoods. When individuals have productive occupations, we promote peace,” Rodriguez added.
Davao de Oro Governor Dorothy M. Gonzaga reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and conserving the countryside.
“Caring for our farmlands is crucial; if abused, our crops will suffer. Avail yourself of all agriculture-related interventions and programs established by our government,” Governor Gonzaga said.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Allan D. Hambala, 10ID acting commander, expressed full support for the agency’s campaign to empower farmers and safeguard them from recruitment and manipulation by communist terrorist groups.
“The farmers are the backbone of our nation’s prosperity. Keep sowing the seeds of progress, and we will stand with you every step of the way,” Hambala added.
