Agri program launched in Ilocos Norte

LAOAG CITY, ILOCOS NORTE, Philippines – An agriculture program anchored on enhanced productivity and sustainability was launched in Ilocos Norte.

Called ‘Paspas Dur-as Biag ti Away!’, the flagship program began first week of this month aimed at elevating the quality of agriculture in this northern province “by generating opportunities and providing support to Ilocano farmers as well as improving farming practices.”

Gov. Imee Marcos said the program was introduced in Bacarra during the conduct of Manang Imee’s Capitol Express, the provincial government’s roving one-stop-shop  which brings the capitol’s frontline services to the grassroots.

Edwin Cariño, chief of the Ilocos Norte provincial government’s Millennium Development Goals Office, said the program would continuously provide agricultural support including high quality seeds, machineries and facilities to Ilocano farmers.

It also involves the conduct of actual agricultural activities such as planting, harvesting and applying fertilizers to different crops.

“What makes these activities unique is the actual participation of Gov. Imee Marcos. She really wants our local farmers to experience agricultural transformation,” Cariño said.

To add more push, 190 farmers, fisherfolk, women and youth from all over the province attended a three-day agricultural training on Nov. 3 to 5 at the Mariano Marcos State University Training Center to further equip them with multi-faceted skills in the production, processing, packaging, marketing and developing local products, livestock and fishery.

They were also taught basic book keeping and recording of financial transactions as well as Good Manufacturing Practices.

Taste tests and display of processed foods including bagnet, longganisa and dragon fruit ice cream were also conducted.

Representatives from the provincial capitol also discussed the opportunities in availing initial capital to start a small business or additional capital to expand an existing business.

A federation was organized dedicated to support Ilocos Norte’s agricultural community.  Pasuquin farmer Alexander Pascual, the elected president of the federation, said they would make sure to help the provincial government in boosting the agricultural productivity in Ilocos Norte for the present and future generations.

Gov. Marcos’ efforts also include the distribution of drought-resistant crops and livestock to farmers, watersheds development, launch of a garlic buyback program as well as strengthening of farmers’ and fishermen’s organizations.