Farmers in Tobias Fornier, Antique gain direct access to DA Support

Farmers in this southern town of Antique were given direct access to agricultural programs and services during the Information Caravan led by the Department of Agriculture Western Visayas (DA-WV) in coordination with the Antique Provincial Agriculturist Office and the Municipal Agriculture Office, recently.

Around 100 farmers gathered to engage with DA representatives, who provided practical guidance on how to avail themselves of government support aimed at improving productivity and increasing farm income.

The caravan featured presentations on rice and corn production assistance, livestock and poultry support, and crop insurance through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC). Also discussed were high-value crops such as jackfruit and calamansi, which thrive in the town’s warm climate, as well as opportunities under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA).

Each topic was explained in farmer-friendly terms, with step-by-step instructions on application processes, eligibility requirements, and where to go for further support.

Municipal Agriculturist Renesito Labnao encouraged farmers to adopt an agribusiness mindset, stressing that farming should be approached as a livelihood with strong potential for income growth and enterprise development.

DA-Western Visayas Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer for Antique, Sonie Guanco, advised farmers to prepare early for the planting season and to diversify their crops. He particularly encouraged the cultivation of vegetables and fruit trees like jackfruit to complement rice production and help avoid income losses due to market oversupply.

An open forum allowed participants to raise pressing concerns on marketing their produce, claiming insurance benefits, and accessing scholarships and financing. Agency representatives responded directly, offering clear explanations and pointing farmers to the right channels for follow-through.

The Info Caravan forms part of the DA’s continuing effort to bring its programs and services closer to rural communities, ensuring that farmers are not only informed, but also empowered to take the next steps toward more resilient and profitable farming. # (Text by: Myleen S. Subang | Photos by: Khrysma Dei Caldina & Cristine Lauresta/DA-RAFIS 6)