DA WV advocates for resilience amid El Niño challenges at Tubungan’s 13th Adlaw sang Mangunguma

On April 22, 2024, the Municipality of Tubungan, Iloilo, resounded with the celebration of the 13th Adlaw sang Mangunguma, an annual event that highlights the indispensable role of farmers in the municipality. Themed “Tubong Mangunguma, El Niño Masarangan ta,” the event aimed to underscore the resilience of farmers amidst the challenges posed by the El Niño phenomenon.

Hon. Francisco Tacadao, Sangguniang Bayan (SB) member and Chair of the Committee on Agriculture, reiterated the significance of Farmers’ Day in Tubungan, which has been observed since 2011. He emphasized the crucial role of information and education for farmers, citing Tubungan’s status as an agricultural hub.

Vice Mayor Leo Cezar Taypen imparted wisdom on the importance of appreciating farmers, likening their craft to that of engineers and teachers. He stressed the need to recognize the labor and expertise behind every cultivated land, rather than solely focusing on agricultural techniques. Vice Mayor Taypen also underscored the importance of understanding climatic conditions in farming and advocated for greater government support in the agricultural sector.

Representatives from various government agencies, including the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its attached agencies like the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), shared valuable insights during the event. They highlighted available scholarships, training programs, and resources aimed at supporting farmers in Tubungan. The PCA, in particular, emphasized its collaboration with local coconut farmers, acknowledging Tubungan’s status as a leading coconut-producing municipality in the province.

Ms. Zarlina B. Cuello, Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulation of DA-WV, commended Tubungan’s farmers for their resilience, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasized the importance of organic agriculture practices and urged farmers to pursue organic certification. RTD Cuello also emphasized the significance of soil health and ecosystem preservation in ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.

Hon. Mayor Roquito Tacsagon expressed gratitude to all attendees and government representatives, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to elevate the agricultural sector. He called for increased support from agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to enhance the value of farmers’ products. Mayor Tacsagon highlighted that Farmers’ Day is just one of the many initiatives aimed at honoring Tubungan’s hardworking farmers.

An information caravan organized by the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section (RAFIS) and the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) provided valuable insights into various DA programs and services. Additionally, modernized greenhouse facilities were turned over, Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) accreditations were awarded to farmers, and benefits were distributed to coconut farmers, further highlighting the commitment to supporting agricultural development in Tubungan.###(MCMBuala/AJMSubade)