CARAGA, June 13, 2024 – To sustain livelihood projects and contribute to food security among farmers associations (FAs) in Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Phase 2 provided additional livelihood support worth Php 460,960 under the Goat Production Project last May 24.

A total of 20 goats, with each FA receiving 8 does and 2 bucks, were accepted by the Bailan Farmer Entrepreneurs Association (BAFEA) and Consolacion Goat Raisers Association (COGORA), including cyclone wires and wheelbarrows (Table 1).

Table 1. SDN FAs who received additional goat production project support

In a statement, COGORA Secretary Alona Teraytay Pavo, showed her utmost gratitude towards the DA-SAAD program. “Isip miyembro sa Consolacion Goat Raisers Association (COGORA), kami mapasalamaton sa gihatag nga dugang napulo ka kanding ug uban gamit pang-uma ubos sa DA-SAAD ug sa munisipyo sa Pilar nga nag tabang support sa programa; kay pinaagi ani dako nga tabang aron mapalambo pa among asosasyon.”

[As part of the member of Consolacion Goat Raisers Association (COGORA), we are grateful for the additional goats and other farm inputs provided by DA-SAAD and to the municipality of Pilar who supported the program; with this, it’s a huge help for the development of the association.]

Both farmer groups received a goat project package in August 2023 which they raised in a communal area. Before this receipt, to enhance farmers’ capabilities in managing goat production projects, training on Goat Production and Management was provided to the groups in June 2023. This activity was designed to equip beneficiaries with the knowledge and skills needed for successful project implementation.

For effective project management, each FA agreed to implement 3 to 4 sub-groups responsible for daily operations. These tasks include feeding, cleaning, manure collection, and providing water, ensuring smooth and efficient farm management.

Additional farm inputs for the goat project, such as hoof trimmers, mineral blocks, drugs, biologics, and weighing scales, are targeted for delivery within FY 2024. The goat raisers aim to become the suppliers of live weight and meat in the province, meeting the high demand for goat meat.  

This support from the SAAD Phase 2 is designed to reinforce farmers’ agricultural productivity. ###

Writer: Shena Mae C. Pabia, DA-SAAD Caraga Regional Information Officer