Catanduanes

The agricultural sector in Catanduanes is significantly shaped by its dominance in abaca production, earning it the title of “Abaca Capital of the Philippines,” where the industry provides a major source of income for many residents and positions the province as a top global producer. However, despite this prominence, the Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing (AFF) sector’s contribution to the provincial GDP was relatively modest at 7.5% in 2023, and it experienced a decline of 1.6% that year, mirroring a regional trend attributed to low abaca prices and weather disturbances. While rice and vegetables are also cultivated, their production has seen a worrying decrease. The abaca industry itself faces substantial challenges from diseases like bunchy-top and mosaic, alongside low buying prices and the impact of frequent typhoons. Limited access to mechanization and consistent bulk buyers further compound these issues for farmers. Despite these difficulties, the government, through agencies like PhilFIDA, is providing support through grants for disease recovery and distributing farm machinery. Efforts to diversify income through intercropping and to enhance production with facilities like plant nurseries and greenhouses are also underway, highlighting the ongoing need to address the vulnerabilities and bolster the resilience of Catanduanes’ crucial agricultural sector.

he fisheries sector in Catanduanes is a significant source of livelihood for many coastal communities in the province, given its island geography and access to marine resources. However, recent data indicates a challenging period for the sector. The Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing (AFF) sector, which includes fisheries, experienced a decline in 2023, partly attributed to weather disturbances that affect fishing activities. While specific recent overall production volumes for fisheries in Catanduanes weren’t readily available, the province is known to be rich in marine biodiversity, situated at a point where the Kuroshio Current influences local waters. This location historically stimulates a variety of marine life, including tuna, which follows migration paths through the area. However, overexploitation and potentially destructive fishing practices have been concerns in the past, leading to declines in certain species and damage to coral reefs and mangrove areas, which are crucial fish habitats. Recognizing the importance of the fisheries sector, the government, through agencies like BFAR and the Municipal Agriculture Office, provides support to fisherfolk, including livelihood assistance programs and the distribution of fishing gear.

The DA-SAAD (Special Area for Agricultural Development) program demonstrates a significant commitment to uplifting marginalized communities in Catanduanes, addressing both the crucial agriculture and fisheries sectors. The agricultural aspect of the SAAD program has provided substantial assistance to farmers in Catanduanes. Farmers’ Associations received poultry inputs and materials, supporting duck and chicken production. The program has also distributed essential inputs like vegetable seeds and fertilizers, alongside farm implements, and conducted training on improved farming techniques such as vegetable production, and goat raising. Interventions have reached various municipalities across Catanduanes, including Bagamanoc, Baras, Bato, Gigmoto, Panganiban, San Miguel, and Viga tailoring support to the specific needs of these communities. The overarching objectives of SAAD in Catanduanes are clear: to reduce poverty, increase food production, establish sustainable community enterprises, and provide the necessary technology and support services to empower the most vulnerable in the agricultural and fisheries sectors.