Twenty-four (24) farmers’ associations (FAs) across Zamboanga del Sur completed a series of pre-planting season trainings from March 10 to April 21, 2026, equipping them with updated production and livestock management practices under the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Region 9.
These FAs, with 607 total members from eight SAAD-covered municipalities, focused on practical farm skills they can immediately apply, which were delivered through sessions facilitated by Food Production and Livelihood (FPL) sub-unit staff Ms. Ellaine Agum, Mr. Junrey Flores, and Mr. Mark Joseph Lorete.
Participants were introduced to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for banana, corn, vegetables, and cacao, while livestock and poultry raisers learned Good Agricultural Husbandry Practices (GAHP), including proper feeding, housing, and disease prevention. Climate-resilient practices and diversified farming were also discussed. Harvesting and post-harvest handling were also highlighted to help farmers maintain quality and reduce losses.
More than technical learning, the sessions allowed farmers to reflect on their own practices. Through guided discussions and shared experiences, they were able to identify simple improvements—from land preparation to animal care—that can make a difference in their daily work.
Sustainability was also emphasized through vermicomposting, where farmers learned how to turn farm waste and organic materials into fertilizer. By making use of resources already available in their surroundings, they can lower costs while improving soil health; showing that even simple practices can lead to better results.
To support continuous learning, printed information, education, and communication (IEC) materials were distributed, giving farmers easy references they can revisit as they apply the techniques on their farms.
With the training conducted ahead of the planting season, farmers now have time to plan, prepare, and put these lessons into practice—helping them start the production cycle with better direction and confidence.
Through this effort, DA-SAAD continues to go beyond providing assistance by building farmers’ capacity and encouraging self-reliance.
Similar trainings are set to be conducted in Zamboanga Sibugay and Zamboanga del Norte in the second quarter of this year, expanding support to more farming communities across the region.###
