Lanao del Norte

Agriculture is the backbone of Lanao del Norte’s economy, with the majority of its rural population engaged in farming. Major crops include rice, corn, coconut, banana, cassava, cacao, and vegetables. The municipalities of Kapatagan, Lala, and Baroy are prominent rice and corn producers due to fertile plains and irrigation from the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) systems.

Upland areas, particularly in Munai, Tangcal, and Nunungan, are suited for cacao, coffee, and highland vegetables. Coconut-based intercropping systems are widespread across mid-elevation barangays. The Department of Agriculture supports farmers through seed distribution, mechanization, livestock dispersal, irrigation, and farmer field schools. Despite ongoing support, smallholders still struggle with climate risks, marketing, and limited postharvest facilities.

Lanao del Norte has a modest but growing fisheries sector, particularly along Iligan Bay, where municipal fishing and brackish water aquaculture are practiced. Key fishing municipalities include Lala, Baroy, Tubod, and Kauswagan, producing species such as bangus (milkfish), tilapia, mudcrab, shrimps, and marine catch like sardines and mackerel.

Aquaculture is expanding, especially in fishponds and cages in coastal barangays. Seaweed farming is also being introduced. BFAR provides fingerlings, fish feeds, nets, cages, and boats, especially for small-scale fisherfolk. Community-based fish landing centers and cold storage facilities are being developed to reduce postharvest losses and improve quality control.

The DA-SAAD Program targets marginalized farmers in upland and conflict-affected barangays of Lanao del Norte. The program delivers vegetable seeds, corn and rice packages, fertilizers, goats, native chickens, and farm tools to poor households.

Beneficiary municipalities include Tangcal, Munai, and Nunungan, where access to regular government services is limited. SAAD also conducts training on sustainable agriculture practices, organizational strengthening, and agripreneurship to ensure beneficiaries are not only producers but future micro-entrepreneurs. The program contributes significantly to food security and resilience in conflict-affected zones.