In a significant step towards advancing grassroots agricultural development, the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program CALABARZON has published its first set of Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) Book Reports. This initiative reflects the program’s ongoing commitment to participatory and interdisciplinary research approaches.
The reports, which document the findings of PRA activities conducted in pilot areas during 2023, include the agricultural landscapes of Tingloy in Batangas and Alabat, Perez, and Quezon in Quezon Province.
These reports encapsulate the results of extensive field research that aimed to identify the specific challenges and opportunities within these agricultural communities. They serve as valuable resources for project designers, policymakers, and institutions seeking to implement targeted and sustainable agricultural interventions.
The publication of these reports underscores SAAD CALABARZON’s dedication to fostering community-driven development. By providing a comprehensive assessment of agricultural conditions in 25 identified communities, this initiative helps ensure that proposed projects are aligned with the actual needs of farmers.
Dr. Wilmer S. Faylon, SAAD Regional Focal Person, emphasized the importance of this research-based approach in strengthening collaboration between local communities and institutions.
“The creation of these PRA Books is a collaborative effort between SAAD CALABARZON and our farmers, designed to provide a deeper understanding of their needs,” said Dr. Faylon. “They will play an active role in initiating interventions that lead to development.”
Beyond simply documenting agricultural conditions, the PRA Book Reports function as tools for strategic planning and effective project implementation. SAAD CALABARZON envisions these reports as essential references for government agencies, non-government organizations, academic institutions, and private stakeholders aiming to contribute to the region’s agricultural progress.
By making these findings accessible, SAAD CALABARZON promotes the development of targeted programs that directly address farmers’ concerns, leading to a more impactful and sustainable approach to agricultural development. Dr. Faylon further emphasized that sharing the PRA findings is crucial for translating research-based data into actionable plans, fostering informed decision-making and targeted interventions.
Printed copies of the PRA Book Reports are now available at the SAAD CALABARZON office. Stakeholders and interested parties may request soft copies by emailing saadcalabarzon@gmail.com. ###
