In a bid to bolster corn production in Ferrol, Romblon, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Phase 2 has extended support worth Php 440,000 to three (3) farmer associations (FAs).
On January 12, Hinag-oman Lowland and Upland Integrated Farmers Association (HLUIFA), Hinag-oman Corn, Cassava, and Vegetable Growers Association (HCCVGA), and Claro M. Recto Corn and Cassava Farmers Association (CM RECTO CCFA) received assistance in the form of 60 kilograms (kgs) of sweet corn seeds valued at Php 190,500. Additionally, SAAD MIMAROPA provided a multicultivator worth Php 249,500 to CM RECTO CCFA, intended to expedite the preparation of their planting fields.
Initially proposed for arrowroot production, the CM RECTO CCFA decided to shift their focus to corn production following consultations with DA-SAAD and the local government unit. This decision was based on their members' expertise in corn cultivation and the promising market prospects of the commodity.
SAAD MIMAROPA Community Development Officer (CDO) II, Mr. Jercel N. Catubig, led the turnover of these interventions, supported by Romblon CDOs Jhonzell G. Panganiban and Ian Von A. Yadao. The event was attended by Ferrol OIC Municipal Agriculturist Elena C. Tibio and members of the beneficiary associations, expressing gratitude for the program's invaluable assistance.
Mrs. Florencia Gara, President of the Hinag-oman Corn, Cassava, and Vegetable Growers Association, emphasized the significance of the support, particularly amid the challenges faced by farmers in acquiring seeds and equipment.
Apart from the sweet corn seeds, all three associations are slated to receive further support for corn production, including white corn seeds. Additionally, HLUIFA and HCCVGA will be granted a hand tractor with complete accessories through FY 2023 and 2024 SAAD fund. In a bid to diversify livelihood opportunities, SAAD MIMAROPA will also introduce livestock production projects for these associations in 2024.
