Fifteen (15) farmers’ associations (FAs) with total of 541 members in Alabat, Perez, and Quezon (AlQuerez) received farm tools from the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program CALABARZON.
These agricultural interventions, valued at Php 1,374,876, include seedling bags, handheld pump, pruning shear, grafting knife, shovel, ultraviolet plastic sheets, seedling trays, trellising twines and plastic drums. These inputs are part of larger crop-based livelihood projects tailored to the beneficiaries’ assessed needs.
Distributions began last January 23, 2025, to ensure farmers were equipped before the planting season, aiming to improve crop maintenance, boost agricultural output, and promote community-based farming.
SAAD Regional Lead Mr. John Carlo P. Narvacan emphasized to the FAs the importance of responsible management and efficient use of the tools to maximize their benefits. He also encouraged group officers and members to utilize regular meetings for strategic discussions on enhancing productivity, strengthening organizational structures, and ensuring long-term livelihood sustainability.
“Ito pong ibinaba naming mga kagamitan, mahalaga na pag-usapan niyo sa inyong mga samahan kung paano ito mapapangalagaan at magagamit para mas mapalago pa po ang inyong asosasyon. Sama-sama po nating siguruhing magamit ito sa tama at may dedikasyon,” said Narvacan.
[With the equipment that we have provided, it is crucial for your associations to discuss how to properly maintain and utilize them in order to further enhance the growth of your organization. Let us work together to ensure that these resources are used efficiently and with utmost dedication.]
In 2024, the same 15 FAs received their initial livelihood interventions, which included vegetable seeds and Lakatan banana plantlets.
Farmers in Barangay Villa Esperanza, Alabat, indicated that vegetable planting would commence in March, aligning with favorable weather conditions for growth.
SAAD CALABARZON also conducted monitoring of previously distributed Lakatan banana plants and vegetables. Area Coordinators provided technical advice on best agricultural practices, proper tree care, and adherence to technical guidelines to optimize plant health and maximize yield. Further monitoring will continue in the coming months.
Beyond increasing production, the program aims to transition FAs toward developing Community-Based Enterprises (CBEs). Mr. Girsky V. Anda, Lead of the Operational Planning, Budget, Monitoring, and Evaluation Unit, stated that as farmers prepare for planting, the program is also preparing marketing activities to ensure better profitability.
“Hindi lamang po tayo nakatutok sa pagtatanim at pagpaparami ng ani, kundi sinisigurado rin natin na may sapat at tamang merkado para sa ating mga produkto,” said Mr. Anda.
[We are not only focused on planting and increasing yields, but we also have to ensure that there is a sufficient and proper market for our products.]
Looking forward, SAAD CALABARZON is set to deliver livestock intervention for selected FAs in AlQuerez further expanding agricultural productivity in the island. This project is supported by technical training, additional resources, and continuous assistance to ensure the long-term success of farming endeavors. ###
