Thirty (30) beneficiaries of the Boyboy Farmers’ Association (BFA) in Sablan, Benguet welcomed a significant boost to their farming endeavors as the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) recently turned over the FY 2024 High-Value Crop Production Project last January 28, 2025.
This project, worth Php 751,920, focuses on empowering the BFA in highland vegetable production, specifically targeting beans and tomatoes. It encompasses a range of crucial agricultural interventions, including the provision of essential farming tools and equipment.
The inputs include three brush cutters for efficient land preparation and management, 15 rolls of polyethylene sheets and 15 rolls of plastic mulch for improved soil moisture retention and weed control, and various hand tools such as hoes, rakes, shovels, and sprayers. The project also supplied high-quality seeds for pole beans (variety ‘Ginga’) and tomatoes (variety ‘Diamante’), ensuring a strong start for the growing season.
To facilitate seedling production, the project supplies 510 seedling trays, ensuring efficient nursery management. Pest and disease control measures are also reinforced through 20 packs of fungicides and 10 bottles of insecticides, helping farmers protect their crops from common threats.
For cultivation, the project provides 90 sachets of tomato seeds and 30 cans of French bean seeds. Furthermore, 65 bags of fertilizers are allocated to improve soil fertility and plant nutrition, with deliveries scheduled for completion.
Additionally, the program included one training session on Good Agricultural Practices for Fruits and Vegetables, conducted from August 28-30, last year. The training was designed to enhance the farmers’ knowledge and skills in high-value crop farming.
The turnover ceremony was attended by members of the BFA, local officials, and representatives from DA-SAAD CAR.
In his message, BFA President Kenneth D. Ignas expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to expand their agricultural ventures.
“Naragsak kami nga Boyboy Farmers’ Association ta maysa kami nga nabenepisyaran iti daytoy nga SAAD project. Ket yaman mi nga ada nga na-receive min daytoy farm inputs mi a para ditoy nga association. Ipanamnamami met ken dakayo nga dagitoy tulong yu kanyami ket haan mi met nga baybay-an. Usaren mi nga nasayaat tapnu daytoy ket agtultuloy tapnu agbalin nga successful,” he shared.
(We, the Boyboy Farmers’ Association, are grateful and happy to be one of the beneficiaries of this SAAD project. We sincerely appreciate receiving these farm inputs for our association. We assure you that we will not take this assistance for granted. We will use it properly to sustain and ensure the success of this project.)
Meanwhile, DA-CAR Field Operations Division Chief Beverly T. Pekas encouraged the association to value the projects given to them and sustain them for years to come.
“Ti agarapaap ket libre. Bassit laengen nga gaget, bassit laengen nga anus, and with unity and cooperation, matungpal iti arapaap tayo isu nga aywanan yu daytoy nga project as we continue to work together,” said Pekas.
(Dreams are free. It only takes a little determination, a little patience, and with unity and cooperation, we can achieve our dreams. So take care of this project as we continue to work together)
The DA-SAAD CAR officials highlighted the importance of supporting farming communities in marginalized areas to promote sustainable livelihoods. They also emphasized the program’s goal to strengthen farmers’ organizations and provide them with the tools to adapt to modern farming practices.
The BFA will begin its venture immediately, leveraging the project’s support to ensure a steady supply of high-quality beans and tomatoes. Adopting an individual production system, each member will be responsible for their own cultivation, maximizing efficiency and accountability. The association’s leadership plans to implement sustainable practices that will boost productivity and contribute to the local economy. ###
