Information Caravan in Bacolod City equips Negros’ farmers toward sustainable agriculture

Over 480 farmers, livestock raisers, and fishers from 13 municipalities and cities across Negros Occidental gathered at the University of St. La Salle Coliseum in Bacolod City on November 14, 2024, for the “Masaganang Agrikultura, Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas” Information Caravan. The event aimed to provide practical solutions to local agricultural challenges, focusing on modern technologies, climate-resilient practices, and government programs to support sustainable growth and productivity.

The caravan tackled issues affecting agriculture, offering insights on how to improve productivity and livelihoods through innovative approaches. Attendees participated in discussions with experts who presented tailored, practical solutions to enhance local farming and fishing practices.

DA-WV Regional Executive Director Dennis Arpia highlighted the significance of the caravan in bridging gaps in government services, stressing the importance of providing technical support.

“Our role is not simply to give assistance, but to provide technical support that empowers farmers to increase productivity and ensure sustainable livelihoods,” he said, urging farmers to register with the RSBSA to access valuable DA programs.

Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Member Manuel Frederick Ko emphasized the need for adopting advanced farming technologies to overcome challenges such as climate change and low yields, calling for collaboration between farmers, local governments, and the private sector to create a more efficient and profitable agricultural system.

The event, aligned with the Marcos Administration’s Bagong Pilipinas development framework, aimed to enhance food security and promote sustainable rural livelihoods. It featured the Kadiwa ng Pangulo, showcasing agricultural products from the province, and was supported by several agencies, including the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO), PhilRice Negros, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) among others.

Local government leaders, including Bacolod City Councilor Claudio Jesus Puentevella and Negros Occidental Acting Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Dina Genzola, Provincial Veterinarian Placeda Lemana attended the event, reflecting the strong local commitment to supporting agriculture. # (Text by: MSSubang/DA-RAFIS 6 | Photos by: SMHToreno and KDCaldina/DA-RAFIS 6)