The Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) led by National Program Management Office (NPMO) Director Ulysses Lustria Jr. assessed the implementation of livelihood interventions of the Samahan ng Tobacco Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (STFAC) and the San Isidro Luna Integrated Farmers Association (SILIFA) through a project monitoring and site visitation activity in Luna, Isabela last April 24, 2026.
Joining the SAAD chief in the monitoring activity were Cagayan Valley Operational Planning, Budget, Monitoring and Evaluation (OPBME) Unit Lead Bernard Malazzab and Food Production and Livelihood Sub-Unit Lead Emilito Yuro, along with their staff and Community Development Officers. They were also joined by Municipal Agriculturist Nestor Labog representing the LGU of Luna, Isabela.
It focused on evaluating project progress on the ground, particularly the status of supported livelihood interventions, while also identifying implementation challenges, gathering feedback from beneficiaries, and strengthening program delivery to ensure efficiency and sustainability.
Both organizations were organized and assisted through the support of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Luna, led by Municipal Agriculturist Nestor Labog. His office played a key role in organizing, preparing, and guiding the associations to comply with program requirements and qualify as beneficiaries of the DA-SAAD Program.
Through continuous coordination and technical assistance, the farmer groups were successfully endorsed for livelihood support intended to improve productivity, increase income, and strengthen organizational capacity.
The Samahan ng Tobacco Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (STFAC), established in 2023 and enrolled as a DA-SAAD beneficiary in 2024, currently has 35 active members. The cooperative received interventions for cattle production, high-value crops production, and community-based mushroom production. These projects have contributed to both group development and household income, generating an estimated total income of Php 128,283.00.
Meanwhile, the San Isidro Luna Integrated Farmers Association (SILIFA), which was organized in 2025 through the DA-SAAD Program, received support for its high-value crop production project as its primary livelihood intervention. The association has already generated an estimated income of Php 23,035.00, reflecting the initial gains of its agricultural enterprise.
Municipal Agriculturist Nestor Labog underscored the positive impact of the program on both the beneficiaries and the wider community.
“Malinaw na ang epekto ng SAAD ay hindi lamang sa mga benepisyaryo kundi pati sa buong komunidad. Unti-unti nang nararamdaman ang pag-unlad ng kanilang kabuhayan at pamumuhay,” Labog said.
(The impact of SAAD is clearly felt not only by the beneficiaries but also by the entire community. Gradually, improvements in their livelihood and quality of life are becoming evident.)
During the visit, DA-SAAD personnel conducted field validation and inspection of mushroom production facilities, crop production areas, and livestock components. Beneficiaries also engaged in discussions with program implementers, sharing their experiences, best practices, and concerns encountered during implementation.
DA-SAAD National Program Director Ulysses Lustria Jr. encouraged the beneficiaries to further strengthen their organizations and sustain the gains of the program.
“Ang challenge ko sa inyo ay galingan pa ninyo at palakasin pa ang inyong grupo. Mahalaga rin ang maayos na documentation ng inyong mga gawain,” said Director Lustria.
(My challenge to you is to continue improving and strengthening your organization. Proper documentation of your activities is also important.)
He also expressed appreciation for the initiative shown by the farmers.
“Nagpapasalamat ako dahil kayo mismo ang lumapit sa DA upang mapabuti ang inyong kabuhayan,” he added.
Technical recommendations and guidance were also provided to further enhance productivity, improve organizational management, and ensure the sustainability of the interventions. ###
