AGUSAN DEL SUR, September 30, 2021 — The Department of Agriculture (DA) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) recognized exceptional Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) farmers- and fisherfolk-beneficiaries during the first leg of the three-part SAAD Saga in Caraga.
Fifteen groups and individuals as well as 9 representatives from partner local government units (LGUs) of the program in Agusan del Sur participated in the event conducted in San Francisco municipality on September 29.
The SAAD Saga is a forum for policy discussions, knowledge exchange, and product promotion. Relative to the COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s edition focuses on recognizing the exemplary beneficiaries of the program at the provincial and regional levels. The latter includes product showcasing with limited participants.
In a virtual message, DA Regional Executive Director (RED) Abel James I. Monteagudo said the SAAD Saga emphasizes how the DA values the contribution of its partners and stakeholders.
“With or without the pandemic, the SAAD Program is committed to its goal to help alleviate poverty incidence and assist in empowering the farmers and fisherfolk in the region,” Director Monteagudo expressed.
Certificates of appreciation were presented to partner LGUs through the Municipal Agriculture Offices (MAOs) for their invaluable contribution in implementing the program in the region since 2019.
SAAD Deputy Focal Person Jekem D. Sanchez represented DA RED Monteagudo while Provincial Fishery Officer Bimbo C. Lagare facilitated the event on behalf of BFAR Regional Director Usop D. Pendaliday.
Exemplary farmers and fisherfolks
Four (4) farmers’ associations from the agriculture (DA) sector and five (5) fisherfolk groups or individuals from the fishery (BFAR) were nominated for the SAAD Saga in Agusan del Sur.
Both agencies conducted separate evaluations to identify the exemplary beneficiaries in the province . The following are the top 3 groups or individuals who will form part of the finalists for the SAAD Saga Regional.
Agriculture Sector
- Culiram SAAD Abaca Farmers’ Association (66 members) – Talacogon
- Muritula USAD Farmers’ Association (80 members) – San Luis
- Cosep Peoples’ Organization (54 members) – Rosario
Fishery Sector
- Doña Flavia Farmers and Fisherfolk’ Association (84 members) – San Luis
- Marjhun Samson (individual) – Esperanza
- Vosbogart Acop (individual) – Sta. Josefa
On October 1, the DA and BFAR will again identify three beneficiaries each in Surigao del Sur to complete the six finalists for the SAAD Saga Regional scheduled on October 5 at Bislig City Cultural and Sports Center. ###
Writer: Mark Angelo Pineda, Information Officer- DA-SAAD Caraga
