SOUTH COTABATO, November 13, 2024  – The Department of Agriculture Region – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) SOCCSKSARGEN recently conducted its comprehensive monitoring visit to Sitio Saban, Tulunan, Cotabato Province last October 28-29, 2024, assessing the progress of the Integrated Corn Production Project, complemented by Post-harvest and Livestock Support in the province.

The project, granted to the Sitio Sabaan Peace and Development Farmers Association, aims to provide them with sustainable resources and economic opportunities. The group comprises 46 members predominantly from the Blaan community whose main sources of income are corn, banana, and coconut production.

In February this year, the SAAD SOCCSKSARGEN provided 33 goats to bolster their livestock resources, which was followed by the distribution of corn seeds and fertilizers in June 2024. As of October, 14 members have completed their corn harvest, while others are nearing harvest. This staggered harvesting is a result of varied planting schedules influenced by local weather conditions, illustrating the resilience and adaptability of the farmers.

A unique aspect of the goat project is the rollover scheme agreed upon by the association members. The scheme allows that the first offspring will remain with the recipients, while the second offspring will be passed on to other members, to ensure that all members gradually benefit from the livestock support.

Additionally, the Program provided the Maltana Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (MFFA) with a corn sheller that has transformed their processing efficiency. This corn sheller serves as a mobile unit, traveling to distant farming areas such as Sitio Saban, where it helps farmers process their corn on-site. By making the sheller accessible to all members, the association empowers farmers to manage their corn independently, saving time and boosting productivity. The FA also was able to help other farmers in the community by making the said equipment accessible to the latter.

At present, the association has accumulated around Php 25,000 based on the association’s records with a total of 1,295 sacks of corn cobs harvested by 15  beneficiaries. The generated income will be used for the maintenance of the corn sheller as well as for its operating expenses while the remaining funds will be used by the association as their savings. 

As to the capacity building activities, members have also undergone a series of training to prepare them with project management. The training covered critical topics, including values formation, entrepreneurial mindset development, basic accounting, livestock production and management, and corn production techniques. This comprehensive training ensures that association members are equipped with the skills needed for both individual and communal success.

By equipping local farmers with the resources, knowledge, and infrastructure needed, the SAAD SOCCSKSARGEN aims to fuel prosperity and establish a sustainable agricultural foundation in the region. ### 

Writer: Vincent Rae T. Porras