In the province of Abra, a group of 38 rural women in the farming town of Villaviciosa formed the Dur-as Rural Improvement Club (DRIC) to support and encourage one another. This organization fosters a network of mutual support and solidarity, exemplifying the positive effects that result when women come together to improve their local community.

DRIC is a part of the Rural Improvement Club (RIC), a non-profit women’s organization supported by their local government unit. The RIC’s mission is to enrich the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk through various initiatives, including resource management, community leadership, women’s empowerment, and entrepreneurship. 

In 2023, just a year after its establishment, DRIC was selected as a recipient of the Communal Table Egg Production Project. This project, funded by the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program, is worth Php 1,076,905, which also includes agricultural inputs, equipment, and specialized training – all of which will be distributed to the beneficiaries by the 3rd quarter of this year.

DRIC’s members primarily consist of housewives and housekeepers, representing a diverse range of ages 30 to 70 years old. Their collective experiences and expertise contribute to the strength and resilience of the group.

DRIC President Gigi Bigornia recognizes the significance of the SAAD project for her group members. She understands that being selected as SAAD beneficiaries offers more than just financial gains. It presents an opportunity for women to advance their expertise in egg production through specialized training and technical assistance. 

Bigornia emphasizes the importance of collaboration within DRIC, as all 30 members have created a schedule to ensure everyone’s participation and success.

“Inton dumteng ti proyekto, agtitinnulongtayo amin, kinapudnona nakaaramidtayo iti eskediul a makipaset amin a 30 a miembro.”

[When the project comes, we will all help one another, in fact we have made a schedule for all 30 members to participate in.]

Villaviciosa, a 5th class municipality in the Cordillera Administrative Region, relies heavily on agriculture as its economic cornerstone. With the Communal Table Egg Production Project from SAAD, DRIC aims to substantially boost productivity and profitability in their agricultural pursuits, particularly in chicken egg production.

As the members of DRIC eagerly await the distribution of agricultural inputs and equipment, they are already mapping out plans to make the most of this opportunity. By fostering a culture of collaboration and support, they are laying the foundation for heightened productivity and enhanced profitability in their agricultural pursuits. Their dedication and unity serve as an inspiration, not only reshaping their own destinies but also inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

The story of the Dur-as RIC in Abra exemplifies the transformative power of community and solidarity. Through their collective efforts, these rural women are not only striving for profit and success but also inspiring others to pursue their dreams. 

As the National Women’s Month is commemorated, let us draw inspiration from DRIC’s journey and continue to support and empower women in their pursuit of a brighter future. 

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Writer: Maria Elena Catajan, DA – SAAD CAR Information Officer