Modernization key in resilient agri industry

Agriculture Sec. William Dar during the launch of the CFSMFF program in Tayabas, Quezon said mechanisms, such as post harvest facilities and financial safeguards; including crop insurance, partnership with reliable financial institutions, distribution of farming inputs and encouragement of loan guarantee funds are available to farmers to help them become more productive. (Photo: Quezon PIO/caption: Patricia Bermudez, PIA-4A)

TAYABAS CITY, Quezon, Nov. 27(PIA)--Agricultural provinces must modernize local farming practices with research and technology to improve its productivity and become more resilient to disasters.
 
During the launch of the Cash and Food Subsidy for Marginal Farmers and Fisherfolk (CFSMFF) program in Brgy. Mayuwi, Agriculture secretary William Dar recognized the contribution of the province not only as the country’s leading producer of coconut and livestock, but also for its hardworking and committed farmers and fisherfolk.
 
“CALABARZON continues to show agri industrialization in many ways, but of course [a] value adding business approach will be critical.” Dar said.
 
According to the Agriculture chief, mechanisms, such as post harvest facilities and financial safeguards; including crop insurance, partnership with reliable financial institutions, distribution of farming inputs and encouragement of loan guarantee funds are available to farmers to help them become more productive.
 
As part of the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act, the national government is set to provide assistance to 890, 794 corn, coconut and sugarcane farmers; fishers; and indigenous people in the country.
 
Each eligible farmer will receive P3,000 cash and P2,000 worth of rice, eggs and chicken as subsidy.
 
Quezon boasts a treasure trove of agricultural products such as organic produce, livestock and dairy products, as well as coconut and its byproducts.
 
In fact, the province has received ample assistance from the DA such as the carabao dairy program, and provision of processing facilities and value added processing such as virgin coconut oil, lambanog and coco sugar, all in a bid to further boost their coconut production. 
 
Fourth district Rep. Helen Tan said that although their province poses great potential in agriculture, ample attention and implementation of projects must be given to this sector.
 
“Ang follow up at suporta sa mga magsasaka ay hindi dapat natatapos sa pagbibigay ng farming inputs.” Tan continued.  (Patricia Bermudez, PIA-4A)
 

Source: Philippines Information Agency (pia.gov.ph)