The Dawis Farmers Association (DAFA), a farmer association assisted under the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program, actively participated in the Kadiwa display conducted by the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 7 (DA-RFO 7), through the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), during the Farmers and Fisherfolks’ Month celebration on May 4 – 5, 2026 at the DA-RFO 7 Complex.
DAFA showcased and sold locally produced goods during the two-day activity including coconut vinegar, banana, guyabano, papaya relish (atsara), and taro (bisol), earning a total sales of Php 5,565.
Anchored on the theme, “Pagbibigay-pugay sa mga Magsasaka at Mangingisda sa Gitna ng Hamon at Krisis,” the event highlighted the vital role of farmers and fisherfolk in ensuring food security amid continuing challenges in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
DAFA’s participation reflected the continuing efforts of the DA-SAAD Program in strengthening marginalized farmer groups through organizational support, capacity building, and market linkage opportunities. The activity also served as an important exposure for the association as it joined a regional marketing event for the first time.
DAFA President Rutchie Bilangdal expressed gratitude for the experience:
“Thankful ko nga naka experience mi ato nga event for the first time. Makahappy and makaproud nga naka represent among association. Kung naa pay lain nga event sama ato, willing ra gyud mi kaayo mo attend and participate. Thanks SAAD program of DA nga gibuo mi as association, ug sa hinay-hinay makausad mi para sa among pangandoy,” Bilangdal shared.
(I am thankful that we were able to experience this event for the first time. We are happy and proud to represent our association. If there is going to be another event like this, we are very willing to attend and participate. Thank you SAAD program of the DA that made us an association, and little by little we can move towards our dreams.)
Through initiatives like Kadiwa, the DA-SAAD Program continues to provide platforms for farmer associations to promote their products, expand market access, and improve income. These efforts also help strengthen the confidence and active participation of rural organizations in agribusiness and community development.
The program remains committed to advancing inclusive and sustainable agricultural development, supporting farmers and fisherfolk toward more resilient livelihoods in Central Visayas.
