The Department of Agriculture–Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program Phase 2 in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) has begun conducting Social Preparation Assessments (SPA) across assisted farmers’ organizations to evaluate their organizational capacity and guide them toward long-term sustainability.
The assessment, which commenced in May 2026 seeks to evaluate how participating groups manage projects, handle finances, and operate as organizations while identifying areas where additional support may be needed.
The activity is led by SAAD Associate Project Officer and Social Preparation Component Officer Abigail T. Bulangen, together with regional staff and community development officers assigned to the associations.
Now in its third stage, following the preparatory and implementation phases of the social preparation component, the program conducted its initial assessments in Abra. The team reviewed the organizational status of the first batch of assisted associations using the Organizational Development and Management (ODM) Form.
Initial assessment results were validated and recomputed through consultations with association members, allowing implementers to update organizational ratings based on current conditions. According to the assessment team, all re-evaluated associations recorded improvements in their ODM scores.
Among the organizations assessed were the Garreta-Sideg Farmers Association and Sulbec-Dayag Farmers Association in Pidigan on May 5, 2026; the Gravelinas Farmers Association and Rang-ay Farmers-Irrigators and Fisherfolks Association in Peñarrubia on May 6, 2026; and the Sabulod Farmers’ Association in San Quintin on May 7, 2026.
During the field visits, the team monitored ongoing livelihood projects and identified areas requiring additional technical and organizational support.
In Pidigan, members of the Garreta-Sideg and Sulbec-Dayag associations agreed to continue individual goat management arrangements to generate household income while contributing to a collective association fund through shared sales proceeds and kid-sharing schemes.
Meanwhile, the Sabulod Farmers’ Association in San Quintin designated a livestock caretaker who will oversee animal management and receive a modest honorarium. The association also finalized schedules for future meetings and upcoming livestock deliveries.
In Peñarrubia, the Gravelinas and Rang-ay associations were found to be complying with key program requirements and implementing project activities according to established guidelines.
Beyond project implementation, the assessments focused on strengthening organizational leadership, financial management, and accountability. DA-SAAD personnel discussed the full scope of government assistance and addressed concerns related to project implementation, including delivery schedules.
The associations were encouraged to establish official bank accounts under their respective organizations to ensure transparent management of membership fees, dues, and project-generated income. Officers also emphasized the importance of maintaining updated financial records and complying with registration requirements of relevant government agencies, including the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
Association leaders were likewise advised to review and update their Constitution and By-Laws to incorporate clearer provisions on accountability, conflict resolution, and sanctions for violations. Regular presentation of financial reports during meetings was also encouraged to promote transparency and informed decision-making among members.
As part of broader community development efforts, members were encouraged to participate in Gender and Development (GAD) activities and identify training opportunities that could further enhance their skills and organizational capacity.
The next session of assessment will cover the 82 Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs) across the region’s six provinces.
Through the Social Preparation Assessment, DA-SAAD CAR seeks to help farmer organizations strengthen their governance systems, improve accountability, and build the capacity needed to sustain projects and enterprise activities beyond the program’s implementation period. ###
