150 farmers empowered with vital farming insights at DA’s Agri Info Caravan in Panit-an, Capiz

With the goal of enhancing and empowering the local farming community, 150 farmers of Panit-an, Capiz participated in the Agricultural Information Caravan organized by the Department of Agriculture Western Visayas (DA-WV) on May 31. The event aimed to equip farmers with the latest agricultural knowledge and techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability.

During the event, Panit-an Mayor Katherine Dequiña-Belo addressed the farmers, highlighting their crucial role in the community and economy. She acknowledged the challenges faced by the aging farming population and the declining interest in agriculture among the youth.

To tackle these issues, Mayor Dequiña-Belo unveiled her plans to establish a farm school in the municipality. “Our farmers are very important to me, and I am committed to providing them with the resources and education they need. The farm school will be a significant step towards revitalizing our agricultural sector and encouraging the younger generation to take up farming,” she stated.

The Local Chief Executive also urged the farmers to share the valuable information they had learned during the caravan with their fellow farmers, ensuring that the knowledge would be disseminated within the farming community.

Meanwhile, Capiz Provincial Agriculture Office Agriculturist II and Crops Division Acting Chief Raoul Perez emphasized the timely conduct of the caravan He stressed the importance of soil health, highlighting the need to enrich the soil to enhance farm productivity.

The Agricultural Information Caravan showcased various programs, including the High-Value Crops, Livestock, Organic Agriculture Programs, and Marketing Services. These sessions provided farmers with insights into the department’s initiatives designed to enhance productivity in the province.

Also, a representative from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) provided information on crop insurance schemes, ensuring farmers are protected against losses.

Farmers had the opportunity to ask questions, clarify issues, and learn about programs and services that could benefit their agricultural activities.

The DA-WV distributed IEC materials, assorted vegetable seeds, fruit tree seedlings, and farming tools to equip farmers with both practical tools and valuable knowledge, supporting their journey towards improved agricultural productivity and sustainability.

This forum marked a significant effort in strengthening the agricultural foundation of the municipality, promising a more sustainable future for its farmers. (By: MSSubang/DA-RAFIS 6)