Info Caravan bring vital support to Barbaza farmers, fisherfolk

Farmers and fisherfolk in Barbaza, Antique gained valuable access to government programs and services during the Farmers and Fisherfolk Day on March 20, as part of the town’s week-long Kabuganaan Festival. The Department of Agriculture Western Visayas (DA-WV) led an Agricultural Information Caravan, giving local producers a chance to learn about various support programs that could help improve their livelihoods.

Around 500 farmers and fisherfolk attended the event, where DA-WV’s Rice, High-Value Crops, and Livestock Programs presented available services and guided participants on how to avail of assistance. The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) also discussed its insurance programs and provided indemnity checks to farmers affected by recent calamities.

During the program, Barbaza Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Member and Committee Chair on Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries Magnerico Esparar encouraged farmers to take pride in their work.

“Do not feel disheartened to say that you are farmers because we are the backbone of the entire nation. We provide food for all the people,” SB Member Esparar stated.

He also thanked DA-WV for its continued support in providing programs and assistance to help farmers and fisherfolk improve their livelihood.

Meanwhile, Antique Supervising Agriculturist Noralyn Setias commended the LGU for recognizing farmers and fisherfolk improve and urged stronger collaboration.

“Let us work together and participate in the programs of your agriculture office for your benefit and the development of your community,” Setias said, encouraging farmers and fisherfolk to actively participate in agricultural programs, emphasizing that their cooperation is key to improving their livelihood and ensuring the sector’s growth.

Sonie Guanco, DA-WV Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer (APCO) for Antique likewise assured farmers that the DA remains committed to improving the agriculture sector of Barbaza.

“We continue to implement various programs for farming and fisheries,” he said, emphasizing the agency’s continuous efforts to provide technical assistance, financial support, and access to resources that can help improve their livelihood and sustain their communities.

Guanco commended the LGU and the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist for their efforts in agricultural development.

The info caravan provided farmers with important update and insights on available programs and assistance, equipping them with better support to improve their livelihood.

DA-WV distributed various information, education, and communication materials, including production guides and farm tools such as rain boots, spades, garden hoses, pruning saws, pruning shears, cane knives, and vegetable seeds. These resources aim to support farmers in their daily farming activities, helping them enhance productivity and improve farm operations.

Text by Myleen S. Subang and Photos by Khrysma Dei C. Caldina & Cristine F. Lauresta / DA-RAFIS 6