Responding to the resolutions, issues and concerns of the LGU implementers, AFCs and FARMCs in Ilocos Region, Department of Agriculture Secretary William Dar addressed squarely in a forum held at the Ariana Hotel, Paringao, Bauang, La Union on April, 13, 2022.
A one-day activity sponsored by DA-RFO 1, the forum also served as an avenue for the civil society organizations and LGUs to be updated on the latest agri-fishery development programs and projects via the presentation of the OneDA Reform agenda that aims to transform the Philippine agriculture into a vibrant sector.
Meanwhile, Regional Agriculture & Fishery Council (RAFC) Chairman, Mr. Benjamin Campañano, presented the consolidated resolutions from the AFCs and which were directly responded to by Sec. Dar.
“Gustong-gusto ko ang participation at engagement ng mga AFCs including the MAOs and CAOS, PAOs and the regional level during procurement, implementation as well as monitoring and evaluation of projects para mas mapaigting ang programang kontra-korapsyon sa pamahalaan,” Sec. Dar said.
Sec. Dar approved verbally the AFCs request for its inclusion to the Bantay ASF Task Force. Dar recognized the vital role that the AFCs are playing especially on its monitoring and evaluation functions in project implementation.
Relative to the fertilizer and fuel subsidy project, Sec. Dar announced the DA’s budget allocation of Php10 billion ready for distribution to around 1.8 million farmers pending the release of clearance from the Commission on Election.
He likewise recommended the use and adoption of balance fertilization where the regional office may include bio-stimulants or bio-pesticides against pests including that of the cecid fly or kurikong as part of the interventions to be given to rice and mango farmers.
Introducing the plant catalysts or bio-stimulants as an ideal solution to the problem on kurikong for mangoes, he likewise recommended the adoption of good agricultural practices to further improve the productivity on mango that may eventually help increase the income of mango farmers.
Meanwhile on the AFC’s resolution for the extension of official’s term of office from one year to at least three years, Sec. Dar vowed to look on the matter prior to giving his directives to amend this policy in the AFC.
As to the request of LGU implementers working under the Fishery Program for an equal amount of incentive to that of the other DA commodity programs , Sec. Dar directed BFAR Director Segundina Gaerlan to re-submit necessary request so that additional budget for incentives may be allocated.
Dar concluded his visit with a brief meeting with members of the Regional Management Committee (RMC) and Division heads of DA-RFO I.###
