ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA, November 6, 2023 – In preparation for beneficiary expansion in FY 2025, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Zamboanga Peninsula convened with its targeted beneficiaries from Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Norte, and Zamboanga del Sur to communicate the policies and guidelines of Phase 2 implementation. Basic and complex agricultural needs of 19 farmers associations (FAs) were initially assessed; said findings will serve as baseline data of the program implementers to facilitate financial inclusion and provide livelihood projects.

SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula staff under the Social Preparation and Program Management (SPPM) Unit formed three (3) teams to simultaneously conduct the orientation and consultation meetings to new sets of FAs within the SAAD Phase 2 covered municipalities in the three provinces. A total of 532 farmers will be part of the program beneficiary expansion in 2025 (Table 1). They were initially selected based on SAAD’s selection criteria and Local Government Unit (LGU) recommendation.

SPPM Unit Lead Ms. Marisol Opinio said early and proper planning is a key strategy for program implementers to efficiently implement livelihood projects, thus SAAD Zamboanga Peninsula has already commenced preparations for FY 2025.  

“It is important to note that taking the early initiative requires a strategic approach that’s aligned with the organization’s goals and values. It’s not about taking on every task or project, but rather identifying where your efforts can have the most significant impact,” said Ms. Opinio. 

Table 1. Pre-selected FAs for FY 2025 SAAD beneficiary expansion

The data to be obtained from next year’s PRA will be used by the regional implementing unit as a basis in allocating interventions efficiently, likewise ensuring project provisions  address the needs, preferences, and priorities of the farmers in SAAD’s areas of operation. 

With these procedures in place, SAAD Program hopes to further strengthen its social preparation practices down to the local level and ensure that each beneficiary is well-prepared to receive livelihood projects. ###

Writer: Ellaine L. Quiamco, DA-SAAD 9 Information Officer

Source: Marisol Opinio, SPPM Unit Lead, RPMSO