Two farmers’ associations in Sta. Catalina and San Vicente, Ilocos, Sur received a fresh wave of agricultural interventions from the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Phase 2, equipping them with inputs to strengthen their crop production and livestock management.
Held at the Ilocos Sur Research and Experiment Center (ISREC) in San Juan last June 27, the turnover included vegetable seeds, veterinary drugs, farm tools, sprayers, and other production inputs — resources identified through prior consultation with the Paratong Farmers’ Association (Sta. Catalina) and Lubong Farmers’ Association (San Vicente).
For the Paratong Farmers’ Association, the inputs are a welcome boost to their ongoing vegetable production and small livestock projects. The group received agricultural items valued at Php 713,645, including HDPE pipes, plastic drums, botanical pesticides, foliar fertilizers, insecticides, forage seeds, and veterinary support kits to improve productivity and reduce operational costs.
“Agyaman kami kadagiti tulong nga inpaay ti SAAD. Dakkel a banag kadakami daytoy, ta makatulong kadagiti gastos ken agtalinaed ti produksyon mi a nasayaat,” said Paratong Farmers’ Association President Teresita Raqueño.
(We’re thankful for SAAD’s support. This means a lot to us—it helps reduce our expenses and sustain good yields.)
Meanwhile, the Lubong Farmers’ Association received 1,500 packets of vegetable seeds worth Php 105,000, which they plan to plant this cropping season. The group aims to boost local supply while supporting the food needs of their barangay.
“With this support, our planting will be faster and more productive. It’s a big help for our families and our community,” shared Lubong FA President Greg Pama.
The turnover was part of SAAD’s broader goal to build resilience in marginalized communities through enterprise-driven agriculture. Along with inputs, SAAD Region 1 continues to offer capacity-building activities to guide associations toward market readiness.
“The goal is not just to provide resources, but to empower our farmers to become agri-entrepreneurs,” said SAAD Regional OPBME Lead Ms. Lorena A. Olveña. “With proper support and follow-up, we are confident they will thrive.”
Echoing this, SAAD Area Coordinator Calern B. Mariñas underscored the role of strong group coordination and continued LGU engagement. “Unity within the association and alignment with government programs lead to progress. We are happy to witness these positive changes in the community.”
Through targeted support and grassroots partnerships, DA-SAAD continues to drive inclusive agricultural growth in the Ilocos region. ###
