In 2023, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) CALABARZON took its initial steps in supporting farmers in the municipality of Tingloy, Batangas, engaging with 10 farming communities.
However, a significant challenge quickly emerged: the absence of duly registered farmers’ associations limited access to essential resources, training, and financial opportunities.
Recognizing the need for strong community organizations, SAAD devoted a year to developing leadership, strengthening community bonds, and encouraging farmers to take an active role in improving their livelihoods. One of the most notable outcomes of this initiative was the formation of the Samahan ng mga Magsasaka sa Barangay Papaya (SMBP).
A Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) assessment in the area revealed that copra production (coconut farming) was the primary livelihood of most farmers, followed by corn and vegetable cultivation, as well as small-scale goat farming. However, a pressing issue emerged – low coconut yield.
Farmers cited insufficient capital as the main barrier preventing them from properly maintaining their farms. Due to a lack of funds, they were unable to afford fertilizers, pest control, or replanting efforts, resulting in declining productivity. Additionally, their inability to diversify into other crops or livestock farming left them vulnerable to market fluctuations in coconut prices, further threatening their income stability.
To address these challenges and enhance farm productivity, SAAD designed the Corn and Vegetable Production Project, specifically tailored to the needs of Barangay Papaya’s farmers. Through this program, SAAD provided vegetable seeds, grass cutters, and essential gardening tools to help farmers expand their agricultural activities and improve land maintenance.
Upon receiving these interventions, SMBP President Ms. Adoracion Atienza took the lead in ensuring the proper allocation and management of resources. She utilized monthly meetings as a platform to establish clear guidelines on the fair use and distribution of equipment among members. This structure not only promoted accountability but also fostered a spirit of cooperation among the farmers.
One of the most notable improvements was the allocation of three grass cutters to different sitios within the barangay. To ensure sustainability, designated custodians were assigned to oversee their maintenance and proper use. This system enabled farmers to efficiently clear overgrown fields without the financial burden of renting or purchasing equipment.
The success of SMBP lies in its commitment to organization, transparency, and shared responsibility.
“Bilang samahan, dapat tulong-tulong tayo sa pangangalaga ng mga ibinababang kagamitan. Katulad nitong tatlong grasscutters, mas maganda kung may nakatalagang custodian na marunong sa tamang paggamit at pag-maintain. Hindi maaaring iasa lang sa akin, lalo na’t hindi rin ako eksperto sa paggamit nito,” said Atienza.
[As an organization, we must work together in taking care of the equipment provided to us. For instance, with these three grass cutters, it would be better to assign a custodian who knows how to use and maintain them properly. It cannot be solely my responsibility, especially since I am not an expert in handling this equipment.]
“Kaya napagkasunduan nating magtalaga ng tagapangasiwa sa iba’t ibang sitio – isa para Sitio Centro at Hulo, isa sa Sitio Pingakiluhan, at isa din sa Sitio Capiz. Isinaalang-alang din natin ang distansya ng mga miyembro para mas maging patas at madaling ma-access ang kagamitan,” she added.
[That’s why we agreed to assign a designated custodian in different sitios—one for Sitio Centro and Hulo, one for Sitio Pingakiluhan, and one for Sitio Capiz. We also considered the distance between members to ensure fairness and easier access to the equipment.]
The members fully supported this initiative and promptly selected representatives to oversee the equipment in their respective areas. With this system in place, SMBP ensures that all members can efficiently and equitably utilize the available resources.
Looking ahead, the community is set to receive its targeted livelihood intervention for FY 2025, which includes goat production and feed support. This upcoming initiative aims to further strengthen agricultural sustainability and economic resilience. ###
