Seventeen (17) farmers’ associations across Leyte Province recently received crucial farm tools and equipment from the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program.
The distribution of these vital resources began in March this year, and has significantly boosted their agricultural production and ensured continued support for their livelihood projects.
The diverse array of resources included water tanks, pruning shears, trellis rope, seedling trays, raincoats, pressure washers, and solar flood lights. These tools were specifically chosen to support the beneficiaries’ existing crop-based, poultry, and swine-related ventures.
The distribution also ensured vegetable farmers had the necessary equipment just in time for the planting season. Poultry and swine producers also received support to help maintain their livestock operations. This timely initiative is expected to significantly improve crop production and foster community-based enterprising.
“Nagpapasalamat gud kami ha SAAD Program han Department of Agriculture tungod han mga farm inputs nga iginhatag ha amon asosasyon. Tungod hini, mas napapadali an amon operasyon,” said Jeremias G. Lago, Vice President of Bulod Farmers Association.
[We are very grateful to the SAAD Program of the Department of Agriculture for the farm inputs given to the association. This will help to make our work easier.]
Farmers in Mayorga particularly noted the intervention’s perfect timing, aligning with favorable weather conditions and their planting schedules for maximum productivity.
“Sakto gudla kay nakatanom na kami last month. Dako ini kaupay it bulig especially kon umabot an tagsirak kay pwede na kami maghimo hin drip irrigation ngan an nylon, magagamit liwat namon para han amon vegetable production as trellis han amon ampalaya,” expressed Joy Bollena, a member of Pagburublig han Parag-uma Association (PPA).
[These interventions came just in time because we started planting last month. This is a big help in preparing the drip irrigation for the drought season, and the nylon ropes can be used as trellis for the ampalaya production.]
Following the distributions, SAAD Eastern Visayas plans to complete a series of capacity-building sessions for all farmer group beneficiaries in the province within the third quarter this year. These sessions aim to enhance their project management skills, ensuring the long-term success of their ventures. ###
