COTABATO, August 11, 2021 – Twenty-four members of the 993 Farmers Association from Barangay Guiling, Alamada, Cotabato earned Php 1,597,904.20 million net income after harvesting 2,105 bags or 134,172 kilograms (kg) of yellow corn from their 58 hectares on August 10.
The harvests which were sold at Php 17-18/kg had a gross income of Php 2,286,263.20. The total expense of the group was Php 688,359 covering land preparation, weeding, and labor.
The group’s harvest is under the Php 446,750 Integrated Corn Production of the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program of FY 2021.
In April, the group received hybrid corn seeds (50 bags), urea fertilizers (50 bags), complete fertilizers (50 bags), battery-operated knapsack sprayers (5 units), pinakbet seeds (110 packs), shovels (5 pcs), and bolos (25 pieces).
Likewise, on August 3, a corn sheller was turned over to complement their production project and help them save money from postharvest rentals.
“At first, we were hesitant to plant the corn because we heard from the other farmers that the rats are eating their corn cobs. But I pursued and followed my instinct because we need to feed our family and pay our debts. Thankfully, SAAD staff Josephine Ting and the Alamada Agriculture staff provide us with proper training to combat this rodent infestation,” testified group president Nelly Eulogio.
She added, “We are lucky because most of our members succeeded and got a higher yield in corn. Thank you SAAD for providing us with this project, this is the first time we have received a project from the government. On behalf of the 933 Farmers Association, we thank you and pray that you will continue to help us.”
Another member, Charlyn Busaing also shared that her income from the SAAD livelihood helped her pay for her children’s school fees and materials for the coming school year.
After their corn harvest, most of the members are planning to rest their land for two months. They will cultivate vegetables in their backyard in the meantime. ###
Writers:
Jennifer Valcobero, SAAD NPMO Public Relation and Comms Officer
Mark Anthony C. Marfe, SAAD 12 IT-IO
