Recognized for its consistent efforts to uplift marginalized farmers and fishers, the Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Program in the Ilocos Region was awarded as the 2nd Top Performing Locally-Funded Project (LFP) by the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 1 (DA-RFO 1).
The recognition was formally conferred during the Mid-Year Performance Assessment Meeting held on July 8–9, 2025 at Kabaleyan Cove Resort in San Carlos City, Pangasinan. The two-day event served as a platform for all DA banner programs, divisions, operating units, and special projects to report and evaluate their respective physical and financial performance accomplishments for the first half of the year.
The DA-SAAD Ilocos team was lauded for its effective implementation of livelihood interventions and community engagement initiatives that reflect the program’s goal of reducing poverty in vulnerable rural areas.
Receiving the award on behalf of the SAAD Program was Ms. Lorena A. Olveña, Lead of the Operations, Planning, Budget, and Monitoring & Evaluation (OPBME) unit. In her message, she underscored the importance of collaboration, transparency, and sustained fieldwork in achieving the program’s milestones.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and the support of our stakeholders. Let us remain steadfast in empowering our communities through sustainable agriculture,” said Olveña.
The performance assessment was led by OIC-Regional Executive Director John B. Pascual, who highlighted the critical role of regular evaluations in ensuring that agriculture interventions effectively reach and benefit intended communities. He encouraged implementing units to be proactive in identifying gaps, learning from challenges encountered in project execution, and adopting innovative approaches to improve service delivery.
The Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division (PMED) facilitated the activity using the DA Performance Appreciation System, an internal tool designed to promote transparency, consistency, and accountability across all locally-funded and nationally-funded initiatives. The assessment process evaluated both physical and financial indicators to ensure that projects are not only implemented efficiently but also responsive to the needs of rural stakeholders.
Aside from performance reviews, the event also provided an opportunity for program implementers to share best practices, raise implementation concerns, and plan improvements for the second semester.
Also in attendance were key DA-RFO 1 officials, including Regional Technical Director for Operations Engr. Dennis I. Tactac, Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer (APCO) for La Union Mr. Juanito S. Malazo, Jr., and PMED Chief Ms. Doris Joy C. Garcia, who all expressed support for continuous capacity building and effective inter-unit coordination.
The DA-SAAD Program continues to be instrumental in building inclusive agricultural development across the Ilocos Region. With strengthened field operations and responsive program delivery, its recognition as a top-performing LFP reaffirms its role in advancing the welfare of marginalized communities in the region. ###
