AMIA nurtures growth and opportunities for sloping farmlands

To address soil erosion and boost productivity on sloping farmlands, Department of Agriculture Western Visayas – Adaption and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (AMIA) Program conducted a site evaluation for Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT) in an AMIA village at Brgy. Mainit, Cuartero, Capiz on July 4, 2025.

Headed by Carmelita Fantilanan – Chief of AMIA program, the team of experts evaluated the area propose for implementation of SALT and discuss future plans with the farmer association. The project aims to introduce crop diversification to minimize soil erosion and harness long-term benefits of specific crops, fostering a sustainable and diverse agriculture. The farmer associations involved are also set to receive interventions such as poultry and livestock, seeds and seedlings for the SALT farm. Fantilanan also encourages collaboration among the farmers and highlight the importance of SALT in the local community.

Further, the project seek to convert the sloping farmland of Melchor Piñiaflorida Socias, 61-years old of Mainit Farmer Association into a SALT demonstration farm wherein sustainable technology practices for hillside cultivation will be employed. Socias also express his interest and willingness in such endeavor hoping to create a positive effect to his community and fellow farmers.

Along with Socias, 25 farmers from the associatin is set to receive capability training to capacitate them in establishing SALT farm.

Text and Photos by Georgia Mae Cordova/DA-RAFIS 6