More farmers from Batanes have strengthened their leadership and organizational capabilities following a Capability Building on Organizational Strengthening: Leadership, Teamwork, Advocacy, Networking, and Linkaging conducted by the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Cagayan Valley for the members of the Kayvayvanan Umhakaw Nu Basco (KUNB), Nyoy Farmers Association (NFA), and Isamurong Farmers Association (IFA) held at the RCPTC Hall, DA-Batanes Experiment Station (DA-BES) in Basco, Batanes, last August 27, 2026.
Resource Person Ms. Joan G. Blanca from DA-BES focused her discussion on the local agricultural context of Batanes. She emphasized the importance of building strong networks and maintaining meaningful partnerships with government agencies and other stakeholders, all while preserving each association’s identity, interests, and voice.
A key focus of the training was leveraging advocacy and networking to unlock new opportunities.
The activity underscored that strong farmer associations lead to a stronger collective voice, broader networks, and greater opportunities. By strengthening their organizational foundations, these associations can better communicate their needs, advocate for their members, and access resources that contribute to community development.
Additionally, the session highlighted that “data matters.” Advocacy becomes significantly more credible and effective when associations use reliable data to support their concerns, identify community needs, and present evidence-based proposals to partners and government bodies.
Ms. Blanca concluded the training by acknowledging the efforts of all involved stakeholders and offering a reminder to every Batanes farmer.
“The future of Batanes agriculture will not depend only on the assistance we receive, but also on the partnerships we build and the collective voice we develop,” Blanca stated. ###
