Three (3) farmers’ organizations in Abra received sugarcane pressers from the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program Phase 2 in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), enhancing sugarcane processing capacity and supporting the production of traditional value-added products.
From July 2 to 4, 2026, DA-SAAD distributed sugarcane pressers to the Ducligan Integrated Farmers Association of Barangay Ducligan, Bucloc; the Salmabasa Agri-Fishery Farmers Association of Barangay Cabaruyan, Daguioman; and the Buanao-Bangilo Farmers Irrigators Association Inc. of Barangay Buanao, Malibcong, while also conducting on-site demonstrations to orient members on the equipment’s proper operation and maintenance.
Sugarcane remains an important agricultural commodity in several upland communities in Abra, where farmers produce traditional products that serve as both sources of income and part of the province’s cultural heritage. However, limited access to appropriate processing equipment has often constrained production efficiency and enterprise growth.
The provision of sugarcane pressers aims to address these challenges by enabling farmer organizations to extract sugarcane juice more efficiently and reduce labor-intensive processing practices. The equipment is expected to improve product quality, increase production capacity, and support the expansion of community-based sugarcane enterprises.
The intervention will also support the production of traditional sugarcane products such as tagapulot or muscovado sugar, a traditional unrefined sugar known for its rich flavor and nutritional value; balikutsa, a native sweet delicacy made from concentrated sugarcane juice; basi, the well-known fermented sugarcane wine; and sukang iloko, a traditional vinegar widely used in local cuisine. By processing their harvests into higher-value products, farmers can generate additional income while preserving local food traditions and indigenous knowledge associated with sugarcane production.
To ensure the proper operation and maintenance of the equipment, DA-SAAD CAR personnel conducted orientations and hands-on demonstrations during the turnover activities. Farmers were guided on the safe handling, operation, and basic maintenance of the sugarcane pressers to maximize their utilization and service life.
The activity was facilitated by personnel from the DA-SAAD CAR Regional Program Management Support Office (RPMSO) and Provincial Program Management Support Office (PPMSO), with support from Daguioman Municipal Agricultural Officer Joshua Lamioan and participating local government units.
The distribution of sugarcane pressers forms part of DA-SAAD’s continuing efforts to improve agricultural productivity and promote value-adding enterprises among marginalized farming communities. Through access to appropriate technologies and strengthened farmer organizations, the program seeks to help rural communities capture greater economic value from their agricultural produce.
With improved processing capacity, the beneficiary associations are expected to enhance their sugarcane-based enterprises, increase production of traditional products, and explore broader market opportunities that can contribute to higher incomes and sustainable community development.###
