With a shared commitment of uplifting marginalized farmers and fisherfolk, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program in Davao Region held its 2025 Midyear Assessment last July 9-10, 2025 in Davao City, to review interventions delivered, challenges, and strategic actions in the implementation of the program.
For this year, SAAD Davao allocated a total budget of P58.32 million, by which P40.98 million of the allocated funds had already been obligated, with P12.20 million disbursed to various initiatives on the ground, as of the end of the first semester.
During this period, they successfully rolled out a wide range of agricultural interventions to its beneficiaries. Among the interventions delivered were 3,150 heads of layer chicken, distributed equally to 15 farmers’ associations (FAs), with each group receiving 210 heads. In addition, the Program provided 1,980 upgraded goats, 611 native chickens, and 49,000 abaca plantlets.
To enhance crop production, 350 bags of corn seeds, along with 1,901 bags of complete fertilizer and 863 bags of urea fertilizer were also distributed. Livestock and poultry beneficiaries were supported through the provision of 3,802 sacks of poultry feeds and 894 bags of feeds specifically for layer chickens.
Further, 64 seedling trays, 120 poultry nets, and 15 poultry waterers were also delivered to further equip the beneficiaries with the tools necessary for effective farm management.
“These figures reflect our strong commitment to deliver timely interventions that empower our beneficiaries and improve their livelihood,” said Alternate Assistant focal Naomi Lamata.
To complement the distribution of agricultural inputs, the program also conducted training activities focused on production and management, and capability building in Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Davao de Oro, and Davao Oriental.
A total of 28 FAs across the region have benefitted from SAAD, with two new FAs added to the roster.
During the activity, Regional Technical Director for Operations Marie Ann Constantino emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring and suggested stronger collaboration with other attached agencies to enhance the effectiveness of DA-SAAD’s interventions.
“Through strengthened collaboration and unwavering commitment, we ensure in creating lasting transformation in the lives of our farmers and fisherfolk,” concluded Constantino. ###
