To ensure the continued success of vegetable and corn harvests, two newly assisted farmer associations in Isabela underwent intensive training last July 3–4, 2025, through the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program in Cagayan Valley.
The participating associations, Capayacan Ramos West Farmers Association (CRWFA) of Barangay Ramos West, San Isidro, and the San Isidro Luna Integrated Farmers Association (SILIFA) of Barangay San Isidro, Luna were the first among seven SAAD beneficiaries this year to take part in the Seedling and Vegetable Production Training.
Facilitated by resource persons Mr. Ryan Gamit and Mr. Oliver Masinna from the DA-Cagayan Valley Research Center (CVRC), the groups gained essential knowledge on soil preparation, seedling production methods, cultural and water management, transplanting, and more.
Given their large area allocation for corn cultivation, SILIFA also underwent Corn Production Training, covering proper land preparation, pest and disease control, and post-harvest handling.
Mr. Emelito M. Yuro, Food Production and Livelihood (FPL) Sub-unit Lead, praised the associations’ eagerness to learn, noting that both groups are assured for bountiful yields once they apply their newly acquired skills.
“Susi sa pagkakaroon ng saganang ani ay ang pagbibigay-kaalaman sa ating mga magsasaka na siyang dagdag sa mga epektibo na nilang pamamaraan ng pagsasaka,” he said.
(The key to abundant harvest lies in equipping our farmers with knowledge, which enhances their already effective farming methods.)
While hands-on training is yet to be conducted, Yuro assured that it will follow once additional support such as a greenhouse from SAAD is delivered.
CRWFA President Diomedes Paguirigan and SILIFA President Marcelo Ramones Jr. both expressed their gratitude for the training and reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable vegetable production.
To help jumpstart their efforts this planting season, SAAD also distributed vegetable seeds for both communal and household gardens.
For SAAD Cagayan Valley, this marks just the beginning. As long as these associations stay united and committed, SAAD guarantees continued support through training and interventions, mirroring the success stories of earlier beneficiaries who have succeeded under the Program. ###
