DA-WV equips Boracay farmers, fishers with agri information to improve livelihoods

In line with its commitment to provide vital agricultural information to local communities, the Department of Agriculture – Western Visayas (DA-WV) in collaboration with the Aklan Office of the Provincial Agriculturist organized an Agricultural Information Caravan in Barangay Balabag, Boracay, Malay, Aklan on April 11, 2025. The event gathered over 120 farmers, fishers, and members of the Indigenous Peoples (IP) community, aimed to equip them with valuable knowledge and resources to improve their farming and fishing livelihoods.

Aklan Provincial Agriculturist, Engr. Alexys Apolonio, underscored the significance of the caravan in directly addressing the concerns of the local agricultural community. 

“I often hear Boracay farmers—asking questions, seeking support, and expressing their needs. This caravan is here to provide answers. The agencies we invited are equipped to assist you with matters related to capital, marketing, livestock production, and more,” Engr. Apolonio stated. 

The Provincial Agriculturist also expressed his gratitude to the Ati tribe organization, the Boracay women’s group, and the farming and fishing communities for their active participation. He acknowledged the unwavering support of DA Western Visayas for making the event possible.

“The DA is working to bring important agricultural information down to the grassroots, so farmers and fishers have the chance to raise their concerns and get the assistance they need,” he added.

Furthermore, Apolonio emphasized the important role of the local government in addressing agricultural issues, urging participants to engage with their municipal agriculture office.

DA-WV Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) OIC-Chief May Ann Grajo also welcomed the participants, highlighting the importance of their involvement in the caravan. 

“You are fortunate to be part of this activity because the DA provides programs, projects, and research-based technologies that are designed to address the needs of our farmers and fishers. These initiatives are aimed at improving your productivity and increasing your income,” Grajo remarked. 

Grajo further noted that the caravan serves as a vital platform for the DA to disseminate relevant information directly to the stakeholders, with strong support from the Municipal Agriculture and Fisheries Council (MAFC) and the Provincial Agriculture Office. 

Meanwhile, Regional Information Officer (RIO) James Earl Ogatis explained the objective of the caravan, emphasizing its role in bringing agricultural knowledge, best practices, and government services to local communities.

 “The caravan aims to equip farmers, fishers, and other stakeholders with the necessary information and resources that will help improve agricultural productivity and livelihood opportunities while addressing key challenges in the farming and fishing sectors,” he stated.

DA-WV technical specialists shared their knowledge with the participants. Agriculturist II Aileen Mae Andrada discussed effective soil management techniques, stressing the importance of soil health for sustainable agricultural growth. Livestock Program Focal Person Glenn Mariano presented the DA’s livestock programs, which aim to improve animal production and the livelihoods of local farmers. Senior Agriculturist Rhea Christina Resol focused on marketing programs and introduced the Young Farmers Challenge (YFC), designed to empower young agricultural entrepreneurs.

Rikka Dela Cruz, representing the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC), outlined available credit programs that support farmers in securing funding for agricultural projects, while Catherine Sullano from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) highlighted their insurance programs, providing financial protection against unforeseen agricultural losses. Additional discussions covered the F2C2 program, High Value Crops, and Fisheries programs, offering further opportunities for local farmers and fishers.

To cap off the event, the DA-WV distributed essential farm tools and Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to the active participants, ensuring they had the necessary resources to apply the knowledge gained from the caravan.###

Story Myleen Subang and Photos by: Cristine Lauresta/DA-RAFIS 6