DA-WV’s Agri Info Caravan brings vital soil health insights to 200 farmers of Caluya, Antique

The Department of Agriculture Western Visayas (DA-WV) recently conducted an Agricultural Information Caravan in Caluya Island, Antique with 200 local farmers eager to enhance their soil health knowledge. 

The initiative aimed to equip farmers with advanced techniques and best practices in soil management, ensuring sustainable agriculture and improved crop yields. Farmers received essential tools and information to address soil degradation challenges.

During the said event, Caluya Mayor Rigil Kent Lim urged farmers to actively engage with specialists from various agencies to enhance their farming productivity. He emphasized the importance of asking questions and seeking advice to leverage the knowledge and resources available. Mayor Lim expressed gratitude to the DA and its attached agencies for their unwavering support to Caluya farmers, despite the municipality’s remote location.

“I encourage our farmers to actively engage with the DA specialists and seek advice to boost your farming productivity. We deeply appreciate the unwavering support of the DA and its attached agencies, despite our remote location,” emphasized Mayor Lim.

Mayor Lim also underscored Caluya’s agricultural potential, emphasizing not only aquaculture and fisheries but also the cultivation of vegetables and other crops. He stressed the importance of diversified agriculture in achieving food sustainability for the island, aligning with efforts to maximize agricultural output and support the well-being of the farming community.

Meanwhile, Sonie Guanco, the Agricultural Program Coordinator Officer (APCO) for the province of Antique under the DA-Western Visayas emphasized the importance of the Agricultural Information Caravan in bridging the gap between farmers and innovative technologies. APCO Guanco highlighted how the event provided a forum to introduce new and proven technologies tailored to the specific needs of the farmers in both farming and fishing communities.

 

DA-WV Regional Information Officer James Earl Ogatis echoed APCO Guanco’s emphasis on the necessity of bringing DA programs and projects closer to farmers. He highlighted that one of RAFIS key mandates is ensuring tangible benefits from DA initiatives and providing guidance in farming endeavors. Ogatis emphasized the Information Section’s role in disseminating agricultural information and promoting science-based farming practices, crucial in addressing climate change challenges.

Furthermore, Ogatis underscored the Information Caravan’s primary focus on soil health, recognizing its vital role in enhancing farmers’ productivity. This emphasis aims to equip farmers with the necessary knowledge and techniques to improve agricultural yields in evolving environmental conditions.The Information Caravan not only focused on soil health but also showcased various programs and services aimed at bolstering the agricultural sector in the province.

In addition to sessions on soil health, the Caravan showcased key agricultural programs including the Rice, High Value Crops, and Livestock Programs. Farmers gained insights into initiatives aimed at enhancing productivity and diversifying agricultural outputs in the region.

Representatives from DA’s attached agencies were also present, offering valuable assistance to the farming community. The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) provided information on crop insurance schemes, ensuring farmers are protected against losses. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) updated farmer attendees on aquaculture practices and fisheries management, while the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) discussed strategies for coconut farming and product development.

Local farmers also engaged with representatives from the Provincial Agriculture Office of Antique, learning about various programs and services available to support them. From agricultural extension services to market access initiatives, these programs aim to address farmers’ diverse needs and promote inclusive growth in rural communities.

 

The inclusion of these programs and services underscores DA-WV’s holistic approach to agricultural development, empowering farmers to overcome challenges and thrive in today’s dynamic agricultural situation.

 

Furthermore, the DA-WV distributed a range of informative IEC materials, along with 100 grafted mango seedlings, 200 assorted fruit tree seedlings, vegetable seeds, and essential farming tools. These resources aim to equip farmers with both practical tools and valuable knowledge, supporting their journey towards improved agricultural productivity and sustainability. # (Text by: MSSubang/DA-RAFIS 6 | Photos : VNQuimpo/KDCaldina/CLauresta/DA-RAFIS 6)