SAN SEBASTIAN, SAMAR, May 5, 2021 – The Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program in Region 8 equipped the members of the San Sebastian Swine Raisers Association (SSSRA) in San Sebastian by conducting social preparation activities and training.

The group focuses on breeding and fattening of swine as well as vegetable cultivation. Because of the association’s huge involvement in farming, it was chosen as a recipient of the program.

The Community Needs Assessment (CNA) and Capability Building Training were done from April 14 to 16 2021 for the group’s preliminary activity as program beneficiaries in 2021.

Both activities are helpful tools for the farmers. They serve as starting point to address properly a rural community’s needs and advocate for improvement; identify the strengths and resources available in the area; and focus on the coordination of association members from organizing, delegating tasks, strategizing in marketing, to facilitating in carrying out project activities.

During the CNA, farmers were interactive and participative, especially the president who raised questions regarding SAAD guidelines and the flow of the project.

The beneficiaries were encouraged to always abide by agreements between the association and SAAD Program because the project’s success depends largely on the cooperation of the members.

Meanwhile, the training enhanced the members’ capability to implement the project as well as encouraged them to be more cooperative in dealing challenges and making solutions.

The training is a step toward a more facilitative coordination between SSSRA and the program to help them improve their productivity and income.

The activity was spearheaded by Area Coordinators Ceiara A. Uraga, Roy A. Tabontabon, and Jasper B. Aguelo who served as the resource speakers. Municipal Agriculturist Ester Mabao was also present to inspire the farmers. ###

Writer: Jasper B. Aguelo, Area Coordinator II, PPMSO–Samar