A year after its implementation, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Phase 2 in Cagayan Valley is now part of the regular programming of the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office (RFO)-2’s radio station. 

The program, dubbed “Agri-SAADiri,” airs through DZDA 105.3FM station catering to a wide audience of agricultural stakeholders.

“Agri-SAADiri” is a play on the Ilocano term “sadiri” which translates into “support, refuge, or protection,” encapsulating the DA-SAAD’s commitment to providing guidance and support to farmers and fisherfolk associations in Region 2.

Through the radio segment, the DA RFO-2 SAAD aims to disseminate program updates, share successful farming and fishing practices, offer advice, and highlight the achievements of beneficiary communities.

Dr. Bernard Malazzab, Regional SAAD OPBME Lead, said that since radio is a powerful way to connect with farmers, “Agri-SAADiri” will significantly enhance our ability to deliver information and support, especially in remote areas through this radio segment.

“Matagal na nating plano na magkaroon ng mas malawak na medium para sa ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda hindi lamang sa Cagayan Valley region kundi pati na rin sa ibang lugar. Kaya nagpapasalamat tayo at nabigyan ang SAAD ng slot sa ating radio station nang sa gayon ay maihatid naman natin ang iba’t ibang impormasyon tungkol sa programa,” said Malazzab.

In Region 2, radio still receives a large listenership among rural areas complemented by an audience share on social media, enabling the farmers and fishers to stay informed on the latest developments of the SAAD program and the government as a whole.

In 2023, SAAD Region 2 piloted in five areas covering the municipalities of Villaverde in Nueva Vizcaya, San Isidro in Isabela, Saguday in Quirino, Santa Praxedes in Cagayan, and Basco in Batanes. For 2024, its implementation was expanded to additional ten associations, five of which are from other municipalities.

To provide a comprehensive perspective, the program will collaborate with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-SAAD to feature stories from its fisherfolk beneficiaries.

“Agri-SAADiri” airs every Monday from 1:00 to 2:00 in the afternoon and is also streamed live on the Facebook pages of DA Region 2 and SAAD Cagayan Valley.###

Writer: Pearl Lovedyn A. Dacuag, SAAD Cagayan Valley Information Officer