CARAGA REGION, February 14, 2024 – To provide valuable information, guidance, and resources to farmers associations (FAs), the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Caraga distributed a booklet containing topics aimed at enhancing the capabilities of FAs.

The distribution took place from January 6 to 8, in various municipalities of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte. Recipients were Balangbalang Farmers Organization (BAFO) in Remedios T. Romualdez, San Juan Abaca Farmers Association (SJAFA) and United Farmers Association of Camp Edward (UFACE) in Alegria, California Farmers Association (CFA) and Union SAAD Farmers Association (USFA) in Tagana-an, and Biyabid SAAD Farmers Association (BISAFA) and Tagbayani SAAD Farmers Association (TAGSAFA) in Sison.

The locally translated booklet has three modules, 1) What is Farmers Association, 2) Internal and External causes that will affect the success of Farmers Association, and 3) Resolving disagreements. This involves topics on reviewing and presenting programs and policies of the associations, consolidating interests and addressing arguments among members, assisting members with financial needs, organizing and developing other organizations, sharing expertise and knowledge, disseminating valid information, applying good practices for development, and engaging in trade fairs and exhibits for active participation.

The regional program management targeted to provide information, education, and communication materials to 625 members of farmer associations (FAs) in Caraga. So far, 225 hard copies have been distributed, with ongoing efforts to deliver the booklets to the remaining farmers. Each booklet represented a step toward empowering these farmers and improving their livelihoods. 

Overall, the initiative to create a booklet for farmers is a valuable investment in agricultural development, livelihood improvement, and community empowerment. It equips farmers with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to succeed and thrive in their farming endeavors. ###

Writer: Shena Mae C. Pabia, DA-SAAD Caraga Regional Information Officer