ALUDAYDAY - 1ST QUARTER 2019 by DA Region 8

Contents

Secretary Piñol declares Catbalogan City as Region’s Dried Fish [Bulad] Champion Area Headline New Year, New RED Editorial DA-8 ‘Malasakit Help Desk’ Launch Attracts Walk-in Clients 3 DA-8 RED Milo de Los Reyes cites CSOs as Partners in Development 4 Agri dev’t pushed in Northern Samar town 5 Jipapad farmers receive loan assistance from DA 6 Farmer–Massage Therapist Feature story DA RFO 8 convenes Regional Price Monitoring Team for aggie products 8 DA RFO 8 holds consultation meeting for Samar Island Rice Development Project 9 DA, BSWM distribute composting facility in EV 10 New DA-8’s GAD Coordinator to Re-Ignite Gender-based Activities 11 Regional Organic Farmers Meet DA-8 New Regional Director 12 Celebrating the Life of SAAD Rural Women 13 Elevating the Status of Farmers 14 Farm Machinery under SAAD Program Distibuted to FAs in Samar 15 Hold on! 16 Mainstreaming AMIA in DA’s Plans, Programs, and Budget 17 New Beginnings 18 Commodities and supplies delivered to selected LGUs 19 DA RFO 8 GAD Focal Point System celebrates Int’l Women’s Day 20 DA conducts marketing forum on ube, peanut 21 Lavezares Women Entrepreneurs 22 “Ramdam na” 23 Ramil A. Pederio: The Hardworking Swine Farmer 24 The Saints that Guard and Guide Farmers in Hinunangan, S. Leyte 28 Putting Samar in the Country’s Agriculture Map 30 DA-8 sends 24-member Delegation to Stakeholders Consultation Meeting on Rice Tariffication in Iloilo 31 Making Change Work for Women 32 EV TriMedia Group Meets New DA-8 Chief 33 PRDP Corner 34-39

The New Face of Aludayday

EDITORIAL BOARD

With the influx of innovative ideas to improve our agriculture sector, the people’s thirst for information and agricultural technologies becomes more pressing. Thus, it is b u t t i m e l y t o u n v e i l t h e n e w f a c e o f Aludayday that perfectly jives with the contemporary era. Hence, starting with this issue, you, our avid readers, will observe some notable changes in the layout and contents of your newsletter.

Aludayday is published quarterly by the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section of the Department of Agriculture, Region VIII, Tacloban City, with telephone number (053) 321-0023 and e-mail address: rafid_da8@yahoo.com.ph.

Aludayday is the DA-8’s humble attempt of transforming Region 8’s agricultural landscape through publication and dissemination of practical farming tips and technology breakthroughs. These are all intended to help farmers cope with the barriers in their farming activities.

Aludayday, a Waray-Waray term for guardrail, is used to hold on to in crossing creeks, rivers and embankments. Without the guardrail, there is that possibility of stumbling or falling down the bridge. Needless to say, this newsletter will help farmers to become better prepared in facing the daily odds in farming.

FRANCISCO C. ROSAROSO Editor-in-Chief MA. CHRISTINA E. COLASITO Managing Editor ROLANDO A. LEPON EDGAR T. BARANDA Graphic Artist Lay-out Artist/Photographer

All Info Officers Photographer’s

Staff writers:

Contributing writer:

PRIMO B. AYASO JUDITH A. SARDA HERMINIGILDO A. FUENTES Circulation

PAUL NIGEL D. CUSTODIO, RAFIS Info. Staff RUBY Q. CALESTERIO, RAFIS Info. Staff KEVIN G. BIOL, RAFIS Info. Staff JASON L. PADUL, RAFIS Info. Staff MICHAEL F. DABUET, SAAD Program Staff

A Quarterly Publication of the Department of Agriculture - RFU 8

Department of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol has declared Catbalogan City in Samar as Eastern Visayas’s dried fish champion area and as such, he desires that all necessary interventions be made available to the fisherfolks and their families.

It highlights developmental information on agriculture and agriculturerelated activities. Articles may be reproduced, partially or fully, provided credit is given.

Vol. 6 No. 17

Jan. - March 2019

Secretary Piñol declares Catbalogan City as Region’s Dried Fish [Bulad] Champion Area

Layout by: Etbaranda10

A L U D A Y D A Y

This was part of Secretary Pinol’s commitment in the almost 2 hours sortie at Catbalogan City, Samar yesterday January 5, 2019 at the Common Service Facility for Fish Processing at Barangay Payao, Catbalogan City, Samar where he also met with the officers of the Asosasyon han mga Paragbulad ha Catbalogan (APCAT) headed by its President Mr. Diosdado A. Carisma and Mr. Lorenzo Añez, Barangay

Captain of Barangay Payao. He challenged them to modernize dried fish production and processing so that these could be made available, not only in Catbalogan City or within the country, but also abroad, such as in the United States, where products from the Philippines are in great demand. The Samar Provincial Government through Governor Sharee Ann Tan established this facility to support the production of dried fish, smoked fish and vacuum-packed marinated milkfish with APCAT as its beneficiary. Assisting the Provincial Government of Samar are the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) at the

regional and provincial levels, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) which made possible the procurement of a solar dryer with the P500,000.00 grant. In Secretary Piñol’s very first Biyaheng Bukid to the region, he met with various farmers and fisherfolks group from Samar, together with Governor Tan, who expressed their desire for a facility to maximize their fish production and processing even during rainy season or in times of typhoons.

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A L U D A Y D A Y

PRDP Corner

Editorial

New Year, New RED As the new year unfolds, a new director is also set to take the lead in the development of Eastern Visayas agri-fishery sector. Dir. Milo D. delos Reyes, of Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office IV-A, sits in as the OIC Regional Executive Director of DA RFO 8, as per Special Order No. 1253, Series of 2018. Prior to his assignment to Region 8, Dir. delos Reyes was the OIC Regional Technical Director for Operations and Extension of DA RFO IV-A. In his first engagement with DA RFO 8 personnel and staff during the Flag Raising Activity on January 7, 2019, OIC-RED delos Reyes thanked those who facilitated the recent visit of DA Secretary Emmanuel ‘Manny’ F. Pinol in San Roque, Northern Samar and Catbalogan, Samar, last Saturday, January 5, 2019. Dir. delos Reyes shared that Hon. Don L. Abalon, Mayor of San Roque committed to provide 200 hectares for rice seed production in support of the rice program.

Proactive Stance from page 37 For the I-REAP component, it was reported that 54 sub-projects for Eastern Visayas were approved amounting to a total amount of Php 97.94 Million, of which 75% consist of micro enterprise, 8% small enterprise and 4% medium enterprise. These various enterprises were duly identified and selected by concerned LGUs and it comprised different kinds of livelihood activities ranging from Livestock and poultry, crop production, including bio-organic fertilizer production as well as fish farming enterprises. Meanwhile, for the I-BUILD component it was learned that based on past year’s assessment Region 8 has ranked number 3 in

the whole country in terms of fund utilization and physical accomplishment as per information given by I-BUILD Component Head, Engr. Alma P. Landia. Other highlights of the coordination meeting include the update reports on different sub-components namely: the Geomapping and Governance Unit, the Social and Environmental Safeguards Unit, Accounting Unit, Budget Unit as well as the Procurement Unit.

is contributing in the overall implementation of PRDP in Region 8. “I hope and pray that you continue to aggressively pursue your assigned tasks”, delos Reyes quipped. He likewise requested Dr. Almeria and the rest of the component heads to update him of any issues and concerns that need top-level decisions or actions.

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Before adjournment,, Director Delos Reyes congratulated the RPCO 8 for sharing to him all these information and he admonished all key players to maintain and sustain the good work that each and every one

“We have to monitor the farmers affected by flooding due to Typhoon Usman, in order to provide seeds for replanting,” he further instructed. Dir. delos Reyes also underscored that the implementation of programs should be anchored on the five parameters of public administration which are effective, efficient, responsive, relevant and socially equitable. OIC-RED delos Reyes also shared that in DA Region IV-A, he was a former Vice-Chairperson of the Bids and Awards Committee and Chairperson of the Placement and Selection Board. “Let us appoint those deserving and develop other employees to become deserving,” he emphasized. In closing, Dir. delos Reyes said, “All of us are important in the organization as long as we know our goal – that is to help farmers and fisherfolk. I am ready to serve you as long as you need me.”

PRDP Corner

A L U D A Farmers’ long wait from page 36 Y D has also been blessed today by a A priest, in the person of Rev. Fr. Rey Y Lagrimas,” the DA8 Chief pointed out emphatically.

“That’s why today is a very historic day of our partnership. And mind you, the concreting of Brgy. Salhag to Brgy. Kailingan road can be considered as our “first born” but this will not end here because we can still have our “next born” FMR project that will connect these two villages to other neighboring barangays, if only we continuously sustain our love and care for one another,” RED delos Reyes said. As such, one way of showing love and care is to use the prospective FMR properly according to its purpose which is nothing but agricultural

development in the area. And the way to do it is to make sure that farm productivity be increased so that in due time economic progress can be felt by all farm families residing in the said villages. He then posed a challenge to the local officials to make representation by way of an official letter requesting NPCO thru Secretary Manny Piñol to finally include in the next PRDP infrastructure support package the construction of irrigation facilities to fully develop the great potential of the said area in order to help attain the government’s vision for food security. Other prominent personalities who graced the activity include the representatives of Governor Jose

DA-8 ‘Malasakit Help Desk’ Launch Attracts Walk-in Clients RED delos Reyes’ instruction “urging us to immediately put up the said Malasakit Center within the vicinity of the DA-RFO 8.”

Ong; Congressmen Raul Daza and Edwin Ongchuan; Vice Governor Gary Lavin who also delivered an equally impassioned speech about the agro-ecotourism potentials of Northern Samar; other privincial and municipal gov’t officials and the residents of the two covered barangays. Also in attendance on the part of DA Regional Office 8 are: RPCO 8 Deputy Director Jenny Lyn Almeria; I-BUILD Coordinator Engr. Alma Landia and staff, other PRDP subcomponent heads, which include this writer as the InfoAce Unit Head with staff Paul Nigel Custodio.

The said help desk complements the Public Assistance Center already established in all DA offices as mandated under Republic Act 9485 otherwise known as the “Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007.” Thus, to be easily accessible, the Help Desk has been set up at the ground floor of the DA-Regional Office 8 Main Building, just near to the DA-8 Library and the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section (Rafis). One ambulant vendor of peanut butter and fruits, and two medical interns of the Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center (EVRMC) who were inside the DA-Regional Office 8 compound to seek help in getting technical assistance and information regarding rural/ urban and backyard gardening were among the first three clients served right away by the newly launched “Malasakit Help Desk (MHD)” put up at the DA-Regional Office, Kanhuraw Hill, Tacloban City. Senior citizen Silving Abarquez of Sagkahan District, Tacloban City, along with two young medical interns Ms Heide Batula (24) and Ms Mafil Calamay (26) of Palo and Tacloban City, respectively, who are presently conducting an immersion activity at the Habitat Village, a resettlement area located in Brgy. Tagpuro, this City, promptly got the assistance they sought from the office.

Coincidentally, they came in while the Malasakit Help Desk is being inaugurated and launched today (February 18) in line with Secretary Emmanuel F. Pinol’s mandate to replicate similar center in the different DA-Regional Offices nationwide. It may be recalled that on Valentine’s Day (February 14), DA top officials led by Secretary Manny F. Piñol spearheaded the launching of the Malasakit Help Desk at the DA Central Office. Accordingly, the Help Desk will serve as an integrated window for selected services not only of the DA, but also of its bureaus, attached agencies and corporations. DA-8’s RED Milo delos Reyes who is on official travel has been wellrepresented by no less than the two Assistant Regional Directors Elvira C. Torres and Andrew T. Orais who both explained that to d ay ’s la u n c h in g o f MH D in t he region was in response also of

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According to Atty. Wilfredo Pascua, Assistant Chief of the Admin and Finance Division, like what DA Central Office is doing, the MHD will initially provide access to agri-fishery information and data, registration and accreditation; agri-fishery profiling and validation; access to development interventions consisting of credit facilities, crop insurance, including scholarships, trainings and seminars, as well as possible employment opportunities and many more. Through the Help Desk, farmers, fisherfolk, and other agriculture stakeholders can easily avail of the services offered by the Department. It is expected that the establishment of this Help Desk could ease-up the doing of business in the regional office, and bring the government closer to the people as envisioned by no less than President Rodrigo Duterte.

A L U D A Y D A Y

DA-8 RED Milo de Los Reyes cites CSOs as Partners in Development

PRDP Corner

Proactive Stance for PRDP Urged...

 ViSCA Foundation for Agricultural and Rural Development, Inc. (VIFARD), ViSCA, Baybay, Leyte Dr. Edgardo E. Tulin, Executive Director  Agricultural Workers and Entrepreneurs Multi-Purpose Cooperative (AWEMPC), Catarman, Northern Samar Ms. Editha E. Adalla, BOD, Chairperson

 Leyte Seed Growers Multipurpose Cooperative (LSG-MPC), Alangalang, Leyte Engr. Alejandro L. Cinco, Chairman

Department of Agriculture Regional Field Unit 08 (DA-RFO-08) new Regional Executive Director Milo de los Reyes cited the ten accredited Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) as “Partners In Development” in today’s Awarding of Certificates of Accreditation and Orientation at the Abuyog Experiment Station (AES), Barangay Balinsasayao, Abuyog, Leyte.

contribute to the GNP and GDP of Region 08.”

RED De los Reyes said that CSOs exemplify the mutual type of volunteerism or volunteers for development, wherein they are organized as a private organization but at the same time ably assisted by the government, declaring accredited CSOs as the conduit of whatever assistance could be done in a synchronized and orderly manner from the government to their group and to others: “ I hope that this beginning will be the start of a very good relationship between the DA and you so that we can help the farmers, the fisherfolks, and ultimately, we could improve their livelihood and

 Alphabeto Livelihood Association, Inc. (ALA), Kananga, Leyte Mr. Danilo D. Soliva, President

 Brgy. Ilaya Kikoy Farmers Association (BIKFA), Hinunangan, Southern Leyte Mr. Victorio A. Dagohoy, President

 Abuyog, Leyte Integrated Agricultural and Fisherfolks Federation, Inc. (ALIAFF), Abuyog, Leyte Mr. Daniel P. Dadap, President

Their Certificate of Accreditation is good for three years. The region has now a total of 14 CSOs, out of 25 organizations that have applied.

 Leyte Agricultural Producers Cooperative (LAPCO), Isabel, Leyte Engr. Rogelio S. Tantuico, Manager

AO No. 8 was issued by DA Secretary Emmanuel Piñol October last year. In March 2018, the DA-RFO-8 called for a coordination meeting with its attached agencies and line bureaus to identify the composition of the Regional Technical Committee

Accreditation can also allow them to join in the bidding for various programs, projects and activities, provided they are able to comply the requirements. The following are the accredited CSOs:

 San Pablo Farmers Association, Tabontabon, Leyte Mr. Fernand C. Alvarez, President

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 Association of Tagpuro Farmers United for Progress (ATFUP), Tacloban City Mr. Christopher R. De la Cruz, President  Benabaye Primary Multipurpose Cooperative (BENAPRIMCO), Merida, Leyte Ms. Jovita D. Conales, Manager

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New RPCO-EV Director Presides 1st PRDP Coordination Meeting By virtue of his position as the new Regional Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture-Region 8, Director Milo delos Reyes automatically serves as ex officio Regional Project Coordinating Office Director of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in Eastern Visayas. In order to apprise him of the present implementation status of the various projects and to acquaint him also to the key personnel and staff handling the different major components of PRDP, the First Coordination Meeting of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in Eastern Visayas was held yesterday (January 21) at the DARegional Field Office 8, Kanhuraw Hill, Tacloban City. The meeting convened the key players handling the Regional Project Coordination Office 8 (RPCO-8) from the RPCO Deputy Director to the heads and focal persons of the major components and sub-components of PRDP. Each concerned focal presented the highlights of accomplishments in their respective units and, at the same time, discuss issues and concerns affecting the implementation of sub-projects for the past years, especially in the year 2018 . Dr. Jenny Lyn Almeria, the RPCO-8 Deputy Director gave the overview and rationale of the meeting which is basically to apprise the new DA-8 Chief and RPCO 8 Project Director

of the current situation as well as present updates, issues, and concerns that influence overall program implementation.

left vacant by previously hired staff or originally need filling-up to make PRDP-RPCO better move swiftly and smoothly.

Mr. Vergil J. Lentejas, RPCO 8’s Administrative Unit Head discussed the current staffing structure and compensation scheme based on the National Project Advisory Board (NPAB) Resolution No. 2, series of 2018, the legal document which delineates the revised NPCO – PSOs – RPCOs Staffing, Rates and Remunerations.

During the meeting, Director delos Reyes was also briefed on the project’s ten (10) priority commodities which were identified by partner LGUs and incorporated in their Commodity Investments Plans (CIPs). These commodities were consist of: Coconut; Abaca; Banana – Saba; Jackfruit; Seaweeds; Cacao; Goat; Coffee; Assorted Vegetables and Ginger

Accordingly, there is a total of 46 warm bodies comprising the entire PRDP-RPCO 8 workforce, and of which, 17 are DA regulars detailed or on part time basis, and 29 are hired consultants or support staff. To lend greater efficiency in the expanded extension of PRDP’s implementation this year and onward, it was learned that RPCO 8 is currently on-hunt for new applicants to a number of technical and administrative positions either

A CIP is a three-year rolling plan of a provincial or city government containing the specific infrastructure and enterprise sub-projects in support to the development of their priority commodities. While the VCA, is a breakdown of product flows from the production area to the market which is used as basis for prioritizing commodities under PRDP.

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PRDP Corner

Other than the provision of agricultural inputs and equipment, the Department of Agriculture will extend credit support to farmers, fisherfolk, PWDs, rural women and youth through the Production Loan Easy Access (PLEA) Program. Interested borrowers are required to attend a one-day financial literacy training. They shall be enrolled in the Juan Magsasaka ID system and also be geo-tagged to establish the location of their farms. Piñol commits to allocating Php5 million as initial fund for the municipality.

Farmers’ long wait for a concrete FMR in Rosario, N. Samar finally over many guests and visitors are present to witness this event, this road will be finally started and completed in due time. Finally, my long time wish for our farmer constituents and for the people of the two barangays will now come true. With this soon to be concreted road our existing farm areas of 554 hectares will be increased,” he added.

Farmer residents of two villages in the Municipality of Rosario, Northern Samar, couldn’t contain their jubilation over the prospect that in 10 to 12 months time, the earth clay and sometimes nearly impassable, 2.9 kms road that connects Brgys. Salhag and Kailingan will soon be transformed into an all-seasoned concrete road courtesy of the DA, LGU and World Bank’s collaboration under the Philippine Rural Development Project or PRDP.

Agri dev’t pushed in Northern Samar town

More than 1,600 village people stand to benefit from this Farm-toMarket Road project which will finally come into fruition as its groundbreaking ceremony has been held today (February 13, 2019) graced by local government officials and the PRDP’s Regional Program Coordination Office 8 (RPCO-8) headed

by no less than RPCO 8 Director Milo delos Reyes. In an exclusive interview with Mayor Gerardo P. Miranda of this 5th class municipality, the local chief executive expressed his heartfelt gratitude to PRDP and the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 for the great opportunity of helping out his farmer-constituents from the daily sacrifice of passing through this highly dilapidated road. “For quite a long time now, farmers of these 2 barangays have been using this earth clay road in transporting their farm produce. Oftentimes it is almost impassable during rainy days and dusty during hot season,” Mayor MIranda quipped. “Am pretty sure that with this groundbreaking ceremony where

Accordingly, what principally hinders the full development of agricultural lands in this area is the difficulty of transporting farm commodities from the two villages to the poblacion. “Our usual mode of transportation is thru the use of single motorcycle or “habal-habal. And the fare alone for one passenger already cost as high as P40 (to and from Brgy. Kailingan) and added to that is the fare for sack load of farm produce such as copra, which cost another P40-50/bag,” Mayor Miranda further intoned. Meanwhile, DA8 RED Milo delos Reyes in his message explained the relevance of the groundbreaking ceremony in relation to Valentine’s Day that will be observed tomorrow. According to him the inception of such FMR project is by itself a good love story material. “The love and union or partnership between and anong the key partner agencies led to the inception of this project whc has been highlighted thru a groundbreaking ceremony. It can be likened to a matrimony whc

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San Roque, a fourth class municipality in the Province of Northern Samar is being primed to become a model in agricultural development. No less than the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Emmanuel F. Piñol made the pronouncement during his recent visit to the municipality. “In two-year time, the municipality of San Roque shall be a model agricultural town,” Secretary Piñol said before an audience of farmers, fisherfolk and local officials gathered at the San Roque Municipal MultiPurpose Hall. To drive that agricultural transformation, a 200-hectare rice seeds production area in the said municipality shall be developed as part of the Samar Rice Development Project. New rice farming technologies and high yielding seed varieties from PhilRice shall be introduced to achieve an increase in productivity. The target is from 2-metric tons to 6-metric tons in two years.

Farm mechanization will also play a crucial role in lifting the state of rice farming in this part of the region. Secretary Piñol disclosed that the agency will bring in the solar-powered irrigation project in the municipality. Other interventions to follow include piloting the use of laser-guided land leveler and the establishment of a rice processing center in the municipality. The Secretary also instructed the National Food Authority to buy palay directly from farmers in the field to help them market their produce and earn more income. The Department of Agriculture shall also introduce the production of sorghum to the farmers. Currently, the agency pushes for the propagation of the crop as alternative to corn grains as feed raw material. The local government unit has to identify a 100-hectare area as pilot site for this project.

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Mayor Don L. Abalon expressed his deep gratitude that the cabinet secretary visited their town giving them an opportunity to realize their plans and dreams for their farmers. Aside from attending the dialogue with farmers and local officials, Secretary Piñol visited farms in two barangays identified as potential seed production areas. Assisting him were DA-RFO 8 Regional Executive Director Milo D. delos Reyes, RTD for Operations and Extension Dr. Andrew Rodolfo T. Orais, and Provincial Agriculturist Ms Leonida P. Laodenio. Before he proceeded to Catbalogan City for a project launching with BFAR, the Secretary asked the local government to closely coordinate with the DA Regional Field Office in crafting the agricultural master plan of the municipality.

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Jipapad farmers receive loan assistance from DA As promised by Department of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel ‘Manny’ F. Pinol during his visit to Jipapad, Eastern Samar in November 26, 2018, farmers in the said municipality received loan assistance under the Survival and Recovery (SURE) Program of the DA. The SURE Program is implemented by the Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC), an attached agency of the DA that is mandated to synchronize all agriculture and fisheries credit policies and programs. The program aims to provide immediate relief to small farmers and fisherfolk in calamity-affected areas through loan and emergency assistance package. It may be recalled that Jipapad, Eastern Samar was one of the areas ravaged by Typhoon Samuel in November, last year, which prompted the DA Chief to visit the area and provide immediate recovery interventions. As of press time, a total of Php2.48 million loan assistance was already released to 496 farmers from barangays Jewaran, Roxas, Poblacion 1, Poblacion 2, Magsaysay and Mabuhay. Each farmer received Php5,000 payable within three years, without interest, through the Metro Ormoc Community MultiPurpose Cooperative (OCCCI), ACPC’s accredited local lending conduit.

The distribution of loan assistance was led by the DA RFO 8 through its Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer (APCO) for Eastern Samar, Ms Nemi Aurora Abalos and Assistant APCO, Ms Grace Palconit, in collaboration

with Mr. Robert Uy of ACPC Eastern Samar, Mr. Ramil Boniel and Mr. Daryl Ochea of OCCCI.

PRDP Corner

FMR Project to improve farmers’ lives in Dagami As early as 7 o’clock in the morning today, local officials, and public school teachers here - with their pupils in tow, including local residents positioned and converged themselves along a narrow road near Brgy. Abaca Elementary School in Dagami, Leyte, apparently anxious and eagerly awaiting for the arrival of guests and visitors for the historic groundbreaking ceremony of the Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) Project that will connect Brgy. Abaca to Panda and two other isolated villages of Tagsip and Tubabay, also of this town.

A L U D A Y D A Y

For them, the said occasion is something special and a turning point for the villagers, especially the farmers, to achieve better life and brighter future for the more than 1,500 residents therein. DA- 8 Regional Executive Director and PRDP project director Milo Dino Delos Reyes led the groundbreaking and turnover ceremony of this PhP26.1M FMR project with an aggregate length of 2.1Kms and 5 mtr in width. Dr. Jenny Lyn Almeria,Deputy Project Director and DA-8’s PRDP Focal, exclaimed that it took some while to finally approve the FMR Project d u e t o s o m e “ b irt h p a in s ” c o ns ide r ing that PRDP was still in its infant stage 3 or 4 years ago. “But because of the relentless follow-up made by your active local chief executive, Mayor Abundio Delusa and your municipal council, we have come this far, and since

this is our project and your project, we hope that you will help monitor, maintain and safeguard this FMR so that it could be used fruitfully according to its purpose,” Dr. Almeria added. For Mayor Delusa and the Brgy. Officials who gave their respective responses and impressions, this infrastructure support facility is expected to trigger economic boom and improve peoples’ standard of living in the interior villages of this 3rd class municipality.

Ms Norma Cabidog, former barangay chairwoman of Brgy. Panda was even emotional as she expressed that for so many years they were earnestly wishing that they could have a concrete road. And she thanked the DA and the good Mayor for making their wishes come true. This projct came abt due to the determined effort of the people of Dagami under the auspices of Mayor Abundio Delusa.

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PRDP Corner

PSO-Visayas cluster monitors, gathers and documents PRDP implementation in S. Leyte Its been four years since the multibillion Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) has been cascaded and implemented nationwide including Region 8. This World Bank-funded project under the auspices of the Department of Agriculture in partnership wt LGUs and private sector had gone a long way in providing key infrastructure, facilities, technology and information in an effort to increase incomes, productivity and competitiveness in targeted areas. Here in Region 8, all 6 provinces were covered by PRDP supporting smallholder farmers and fishers in raising their marketable surpluses and access to markets. But after all these years has PRDP made an impact to the lives of the people in target areas? Were there any positive changes that happened or happening to the farmers and fisherfolk which were the ultimate beneficiaries of PRDP? How does PRDP differs from other agricultural programs? What innovations or good practices done by key implementers? These are just samples of questions asked during the recent monitoring, gathering and documentation conducted by the Project Support Office - Visayas Cluster in its bid to determine the true picture or status of program implementation in Southern Leyte.

It may be recalled that among the 6 provinces in Eastern Visayas,

Southern Leyte has the most number of ongoing I-BUILD and I-REAP projects that met favorable approvable from the Regional to National Project Advisory Board (RPAB/NPAB). Mr. Franco Villaruel, Head of M & E Unit of the Project Support Office Visayas cluster spearheaded the recent 3-day monitoring, gathering and documentation of PRDP project implementation in Southern Leyte. In line with this, the PSO team sought the help of the Regional Project Coordination Office (RPCO) under Regional Project Director Milo D. Delos Reyes and Deputy Director Jenny Lyn Almeria in providing manpower support for the conduct of the said M and E activity. To conform with established unwritten protocol and standard operating procedures, RCPO’s M & E Unit Head Ms Eva Q. Mendoza and InfoAce Unit Head Mr. Francis C. Rosaroso were assigned to accompany the PSO-VC team to

assist in the conduct of the M&E activity. Together, the combined PSO and RPCO team, jointly buckled down to work and embarked on individual and group interviews to the key personnel of PPMIU headed by Ms Ida Sy Monzon. Immediately, all concerned local officials from Provincial Agriculturist, Provincial Veterinarian, Engineers, Accountant, including other technical staff, appraisers and BAC members were interviewed one after the other. In turn, said key personnel gave their respective testimonies and their side of stories either pros or cons with an end view of improving program implementation. Results of the said monitoring activity, particularly important excerpts or highlights of the interview and documentation will be released and presented before the mid-year World Bank Mission comes to Region 8.

Feature Story

Farmer–Massage Therapist

The gnarled hands and crow’s feet on her ancient face speak volumes about life in the countryside. The hands are calloused and lined, the veins slightly throbbing as the key informant interview progressed during SAAD Program monitoring team’s visit to her on January 22, 2019.

During the interview, she talked about halcyon days when her husband was still alive, and together they cultivated 4 hectares with the help of a carabao they owned. But their rice production always remained at 20 cavans because they had no budget for fertilizers then. If ever there was extra money, they could only apply 1–2 bags for the entire field.

These are the hands that till the soil and produce food for our table. These are also the hands that deftly rub, knead, and apply gentle pressure on aging limbs of sick and rehabilitating patients. Yes, Carolina Grande, 76 years old, widow, and resident of Brgy. Lipata, Allen, Northern Samar, considers herself first and foremost a farmer, but she also engages in therapy and reflexology as her favorite avocation. She is a beneficiary of the Rice Production Enhancement Project in the area. As beneficiary, Lola Carolina, as she is fondly called, originally received in early 2018 one (1) sack rice seeds, 6 bags organic fertilizer, 3 bags complete fertilizer, 2 bags Urea, and 1 bag Muriate of Potash. From these inputs, she was able to harvest 78 sacks of palay during the regular cropping. In June 2018, she was a recipient of the rice repeat order; thence she was provided with the same inputs. Upon harvest during the 2nd cropping, she unprecedentedly reaped 86 sacks of palay. Local farmers practice two cropping a year. As tenant of the 1–hectare rice field she is tilling, she is obligated to give the landowner 24 cavans of palay per cropping. After reserving 2 sacks rice seeds from her harvest for planting in the subsequent season, she sells what’s

left to local wholesalers in Allen for PhP600.00/cavan. As on–call massage therapist, she earns about PhP350.00–500.00/session, earning for her an estimated additional income of PhP4,000.00/month. Her clientele reaches as far as Catarman, by word of mouth, because of her vaunted skill.

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Hence, she was profusely grateful for being chosen as one of the SAAD Program beneficiaries because aside from the unexpected volume of production, she learned the value of full fertilization from the Farmers’ Field School conducted by the UEP, and its effect on rice productivity. Lola Carolina may have arms that look distinctly, and her hands may be deformed, but they are instrumental in feeding and nourishing a hungry world. After all, as they say, beautiful hands are those that do work and make a difference.

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DA RFO 8 convenes Regional Price Monitoring Team for aggie products

In a bid to address issues pertaining to prices of agricultural commodities in Eastern Visayas, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 convened the key members of the Regional Bantay Presyo Monitoring Team (RBPMT) on, February 7, 2019 in Tacloban City. DA RFO 8’s OIC-Regional Executive Director, Milo D. Delos Reyes was represented by OIC-Assistant Regional Director for Operations, Andrew Rodolfo T. Orais. In his message, he urged the team to consider other issues besides price monitoring such as the supply of products; the need for database; and the price trend in the last few years. “We also have to look into the violators of the Price Act and concretize our actions,” Dir. Orais averred.

Ms Evelyn M. Mionda, Chief of DA RFO 8’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division, appealed to the team to regularly submit price monitoring so this could in turn be submitted to the DA Central Office

and could serve as basis in planning and projection activities. The team agreed to consolidate data for the entire region and incorporate analysis of reports to guide program directions. The involvement of the Philippine Statistics Authority was also eyed especially in the data gathering.

The key members of the RBPMT present in the said meeting includes the National Food Authority, National Meat Inspection Services, Veterinary Quarantine Services, Plant Quarantine Services, Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority, and Sugar Regulation Administration.

EV TriMedia Group Meets New DA-8 Chief Barely a month following his assumption as the new DA8’s Regional Executive Director, the local media has finally got the chance to personally interview, share meals and exchange pleasantries with Dir. Milo delos Reyes. The simple luncheon meeting cum press conference was held not in a cozy hotel or restaurant but right inside the RED’s Office of DA RFO8, Kanhuraw Hill, Tacloban City.

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Dir. De los Reyes himself has opted to meet them inside his office to send a clear message that his office’s door is widely open for clients and visitors, including the press people who would wish to gather information or updates on the implementation of agricultural programs and services. To set the tone and make the visitors feel quite comfortable while talking with him, Dir. Delos Reyes jestingly said “madali po akong lapitan pero mahirap hanapin” (am approachable but quite difficult to find). Presumably, it was his way of saying that whenever he is in the office, media people should not hesitate to approach him since there may be some time that he will not be around, as he usually goes around the region monitoring program implementation or wherever upon orders of Secretary Piñol. When asked what his thoughts about the frequent changing of guard at the DA Region, and how will it impact to the agriculture sector in Eastern Visayas?, delos reyes said: “Wala naman segurong masyadong epekto yan kasi isa lang

naman ang pangulo ng Pilipinas at isa din lang ang Secretary ng DA for the past 3 years.” “Perhaps, the only difference or issue will be: how fast can we implement programs,” he exclaimed. And for which he vowed to thoroughly plan out and strategize everything so that immediate impact or result would be felt by the farmerclientele. So far, during the interaction many issues and concerns were asked and tackled that revolved around the following topics: 1. Food Security vs. Food SelfSufficiency; 2. The updates on rehabilitation of farmers livelihood in Lope de Vega, Northern

Samar and nearby municipalities; 3. Status of Post-Yolanda activities and updates; 4. the Special Area for Agricultural Development; 5. the proposed Samar Rice Development Project; 6. the Survival and Rehabilitation (SURE) and other DA Loan Program Schemes; 7. Communication support to all DA programs, and many more. The luncheon press conference ended up with RED delos Reyes answering phone patched questions thru Miss Felgin’s real time media coverage over Bombo radio station and live interview with local TV correspondent Mr. Geron Ponferrada of ABS-CBN.

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Making Change Work for Women and housewives are the primary shock absorbers on the impact of increasing prices of commodities”. He clarrified issues arising from misinformation on the law. He emphasized the salient points of the act especially on the benefits coming from the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) and the advent of affordable and accessible rice in the market. Princess de los Reyes of POPCOM provided a lecture on family planning and reproductive health. She encouraged the participants to become advocates of family planning and reproductive health in the community. In her lecture, Ms. de los Reyes debunked some myths surrounding reproductive health and family planning whilst providing scientific explanations.

The 2019 Women’s Month Celebration is coming to a close. For it’s part the Department of Agriculture conducted a women leaders’ forum which was attended by women leaders from all over the region. The forum seeks to inform the participants of the current issues involving women such as the Rice Tariffication Act and Reproductive Health.

shines”, Dir. Delos Reyes quipped as he throw a challenge to the DA GAD Focal Point System (DA-GFPS) to formulate women-responsive programs for the DA. “We must work for change. Women should be at the forefront of action. Women should help each other, especially the ones in need”, Dir. Delos Reyes invoked in promoting solidarity for women empowerment.

In his message, DA RFO 8 Regional Executive Director, Dir. Milo D. Delos Reyes underscored the importance of w o m e n e m p o w e r m e n t i n t h e successful implementation of agricultural programs. “Women, the more you cherish and care for them, the more their feminity

One of the highlight of the event is the lecture on RA 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Act delivered by DA RFO8’s former Regional Executive Director, Dir. Leo Cañeda. Dir. Cañeda underscored “in the issue of rice tariffication, women are directly affected - women as mothers

To cap off the event Dir. Elvira C. Torres, GAD Focal Person of DA RFO 8, facilitated a consultation on women participation in rice production. Based on the workshop, women prefer to participate on (1) provision of farm equipment and farm mechanization (2) conduct of GAD seminars, consultations, and meetings (3) conduct of rice technology production trainings (4) Local Farmer Technicians (5) conduct of agri-trade fairs. The results will be used by the DA GFPS as a springboard in crafting programs and projects for women. The event was also attended by members of the DA-GFPS Technical Working Group both from DA regional office and DA’s bureaus and attached agencies.

DA RFO 8 holds consultation meeting for Samar Island Rice Development Project Taking on the challenge posted by Department of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel ‘Manny’ F. Pinol to awaken the sleeping ‘giant’ that is the Samar Island, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8, in collaboration with partneragencies initiated a consultation meeting for the proposed Samar Island Rice Development Project (SIRDP) on January 31, 2019 in Tacloban City. DA RFO 8’s OIC Assistant Regional Director for Operations, Dir. Andrew Rodolfo T. Orais, who represented OIC Regional Executive Director Milo D. Delos Reyes, emphasized in his message that Samar Island has a lot of potential because of its vast area, fertile farm land and water resources, among others. “Let us look into the drivers of success and hindering factors of former projects. We will discuss on how to implement SIRDP because if we involve other people, we will be able to come up with a better plan,” Dir. Orais averred. The meat of the consultation was the presentation of data needed for the preparation of a comprehensive plan. Technical staff from the DA RFO 8 presented updates on the three Samar provinces’ rice production performance, cost structure on rice production, inventory of farm machineries/equipment and agri-infrastructure and the proposed communication plan. Director Wilma Perante of the Philippine Statistics Authority-8 also presented rice production data for 2018.

Present in the said consultation were key partners from the Provincial Agriculture Offices of Samar, Eastern Samar and Northern Samar, National Food Authority-8, National Irrigation Administration-8, Philippine Statistics Authority-8, Agricultural Training Institute-8, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation-8, Department of Agrarian

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Reform, University of Eastern Philippines, Samar State University and Eastern Samar State University. In closing, ARD Elvira C. Torres encouraged the Provincial Local Government Units to take the lead in the SIRDP implementation.

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DA, BSWM distribute composting facility in EV

DA-8 sends 24-member Delegation to Stakeholders Consultation Meeting on Rice Tariffication in Iloilo riculture in Samar exemplified by a farmer who was seen using a herd of carabaos doing land preparation without any modern farm tools. But on the background of said farmer in the video clip, another farmer is seen using handtractor in plowing his ricefield.

Farmers in Eastern Visayas have been ably represented with DAR F O 8 ’s s e n d i n g o f 2 4 m a n d e l e g a t e s t o y e s t e r d a y ’s V i s a yas Cluster Consultation Meeting on the draft Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRRs) of the Rice Liberalization Law. Said activity was held at the Mansion Hotel, Iloilo City. Funded under the National Organic Agriculture Program, the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) in close collaboration with the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 and the Villar Sipag Foundation, distributed 17 units of Composting Facility for Biodegradable Wastes (CFBW) to identified Local Government Units in Region 8.

DA RFO 8’s OIC Regional Executive Director, Milo D. Delos Reyes led the ceremonial turnover of the said facility which is used in solid waste management and production of organic inputs or bio-fertilizers. “We have to require the Local Government Units to regularly submit reports to ensure the sustainability of the facility,” RED Delos Reyes pointed out.

Mr. Armando Arcamo, BSWM’s Soil and Water Area Coordinator for Region 8 shared that there are already about 14 units of CFBW in Region 8 since the start of the program implementation in 2015. “The facility aims to help the LGUs or community to apply proper segregation of wastes and promote sustainable agriculture through the production of fertilizers,” Mr. Arcamo emphasized. Meanwhile, Mayor Marian June E. Libanan of Taft, Eastern Samar expressed her gratitude to the DA through BSWM and the Villar Sipag Foundation for including her municipality as one of the recipients of the facility. Other LGU-beneficiaries are the following: Dulag, Hilongos, Palompon, Isabel, Tolosa, Mac Arthur, Hindang, Hinunangan, Maasin City, Guiuan, Basey, Calbayog City, San

Jose, Catubig, Gamay and Kawayan. Also present in the said turnover were DA RFO 8’s Organic Agriculture Program Focal Person, Dr. Carlos S. de la Cruz; Integrated Laboratory Division Chief, Mr. Reynaldo S. Salamat; and representatives from the Villar Sipag Foundation.

More than a hundred stakeholders from Region 6, 7 and 8 attended the consultative meeting graced by DA Officials led by Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol and representatives from the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA). DA-8 Regional Executive Director Milo D. Delos Reyes together wt his RTDs Elvira C. Torres and Andrew Orais headed the Eastern Visayas delegates mostly composed of rice farmers, traders, Agriculturists and active officials of the Agriculture and Fishery Councils (AFC). Basically, the main objective of the consultation is to fine-tune the draft IRR prepared by DA-NEDA joint team before its final approval and publication as enabling document that will guide the fullblast

implementation of RA 11203 otherwise known as the Rice Liberalization Law. Apparently, the wisdom of the Visayas stakeholders was essentially noted as most came out to the open not to denounce the law but to air out suggestions in order to arrive at acceptable guidelines where small farmers’ voices are duly heard and protected. Even Secretary Piñol himself couldn’t hide his appreciation to the participants’ eagerness to share their thoughts about the newly-approved law and the state of the country’s rice industry. All throughout the 7-hour interaction, substantive exchange of views and ideas transpired whc was interspersed with humorous anecdotes both by the Secretary and the side of the farmer-participants. For instance, Mr. Inocencio Morallos, PAFC Chair of Eastern Samar wittingly explained why there are still some farmers in Samar that practice “payatak system” or the traditional way of farming. To drive home his point he requested for a replay of Secretary’s video presentation on the sad state of ag-

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By contrast Mr. Morallos told the good Secretary that the two contrasting scenes are reflective of what is truly going on in Samar which is: too much politics even in the distribution of farm inputs and equipment. Payatak persists because there are farmers who are not protegees or friends of local chief executives. While those who are political allies enjoy those perks and goodies provided by the government. This wittingly or unwittingly draws applause from the participants resulting in Secretary Piñol’s saying that he also observes too much political patronage really affect the state of agriculture in the entire Samar Island. “That’s why the 3 Samar provinces remain among the poorest provinces in the country. Hence, it shld be a must that Samareños or even in other provinces, shld vote only those candidates who have the heart and sincerity to serve”, the good Secretary bewailed such predicament to his audience. Also in attendance in this consultation were other Officials namely: USec Segfred Serrano; Asec Hansel Hansel O. Didulo, Asec Andrew Villacorta and Dir. Christopher Morales all of DA- Central Office

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Putting Samar in the Country’s Agriculture Map “Dito sa San Roque magsisimula ang pagbangon ng Samar.” (The rising up of Samar will start here in San Roque).

“The project that we are ready to take on in your municipality is very much different from previous DAinitiated projects,” he added.

These words came from DA S e c r e t a r y E m m a n u e l F. P i ñ o l during yesterday’s historic signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between him and Hon. Don L. Abalon, the Municipal Mayor of San Roque. Other key signatories include Mr. Anthony Gil and Mr. Nathaniel Fabila, private investor and topnotch rice seed grower, respectively. DA RFO 8 Regional Executive Director Milo delos Reyes and heads of attached agencies and line bureaus such as PhilRice, NFA, NIA, ACPC, and others having special concern on the production of rice, likewise signed the MOU.

Piñol, back in Northern Samar after barely a month since his last visit on January 5, 2019, beamed wt pride and enthusiasm as he shared with local residents the major activities and projects that the government and private rice seed growers are planning to do to fully operationalize the project. “All we need is your all-out cooperation especially the farmers and landowners who will be hugely benefitted by the array of agriculture projects we opt to establish here”, Piñol told the audience that witnessed this rare event. Said MOU signing is just a prelude to ensuing closer collaboration among the national and local gov’t agencies. Mayor Abalon and members of his local council profusely thanked the DA Secretary for the latter’s unwavering efforts to put San Roque and the province in the

country’s map of top rice producers in the coming years. The DA Chief called on the farmowners to enlist their respective farm areas to the proposed leasehold agreement where farmowners of one hectare farmlot will be paid Php 15, 000 as rental fee per year. An advance three-year rental will be given to farmer-owner upon agreement of the leasehold contract. “Instead of letting your lands to lie idly, or tilling it thru the traditional way of farming with no net income assurance, why not join this when you can surely earn and be entitled to other perks and benefits such as farm equipment, post harvest facilities, FMRs, dryers, Solar-powered irrigation system, and others? Noting the varied reactions of the landowners who are used to 1/4 sharing arrangement wt their tenant farmers, Sec. Piñol further explained that said proposed leasing arrangement is not final yet but still subject to the consensus or approval of concerned parties. “But what is sure for now is that those individual farmers who won’t join such agreement will still be assisted in terms of training, technical assistance and logistical support”, he stressed. The project is initially targeting a 200ha farm areas that can be used as Rice Seed Production site. From there, high quality rice seeds will be produced to cater the seed requirement not only of Northern Samar, but the entire region as well.

New DA-8’s GAD Coordinator to Re-Ignite Gender-based Activities The newly designated Coordinator of Gender and Development (GAD) Program in the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 8, called for a small group meeting with some key personnel to brainstorm on what GAD-related activities and projects that should be given utmost priority for 2019 and in the ensuing years. Assistant Regional Director Elvira C. Torres presided the meeting as the new DA-RFO 8’s GAD Regional Coordinator. Said activity was attended by key RAFIS Staff who serve as the DA-8 GAD Secretariat and two newly hired personnel under the Office of the Assistant Regional Director for Research and Regulations. Dir. Torres takes over the helm as the new GAD Focal in lieu of Mr. Jason Padul who has been handling the GAD-related programs for the DA-RFO 8 in the last four years. Such changes in the composition of Regional Technical Working Group were made in compliance with the existing guidelines set forth by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) wherein all government agencies are mandated to designate whoever is the highest ranking female employee to be the GAD Coordinator or Focal person. This is but part and parcel of the national directive to ensure that procedures for the formulation, implementation, monitoring and

evaluation of GAD plans and budgets of agencies will be strictly followed or implemented under the auspices of a top-ranking female employee. During the meeting, Director Torres acknowledged Mr. Padul’s initiatives in steering the DA’s GAD Program for where it is now despite great difficulties of trying to mainstream gender and development issues to the agency’s regular programs and the seeming lack of manpower and other logistical support. Amidst all these challenges, the DA-RFO 8 thru Mr. Padul’s initiative, has managed to submit regular accomplishment reports and work plans to DA-Central Office and other partner agencies such as the PCW, NEDA and DBM. However, there are times wherein GAD Plans undergo some tedious process before it could be properly endorsed and approved by the PCW which is the lead agency that

oversees the nationwide GAD program implementation. Accordingly, the agency’s GAD Plan is a systematic set of programs, activities and projects with clear objectives for addressing gender issues and appropriate strategies and activities with monitoring and evaluation indicators. It is an instrument to make all aspects of the agency and its work genderresponsive.

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Efforts to push for a reinvigorated implementation of GAD-related activities and projects will be the main focus of ARD Torres, especially that there is an annual search for Most Outstanding Rural Women being launched every year by the PCW. Under Director Torres watch, she said that aiming for that most coveted title for our women working in the region’s agriculture and fishery Sectors will be on the top list of her agenda as the new DA-8’s GAD Coordinator/ Focal Person

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Regional Organic Farmers Meet DA-8 New Regional Director

production loan (up to PhP50,000 per FB) ; housing loan (PhP2Million per household); capacity or business loan (another PhP2 Million); emergency loan (PhP20,000), and last but not least, hospitalization loan of up to PhP50,000.

Farmers, representing the core of the Eastern Visayas Organic Farmers Producers Cooperative (EVOFPC), met and sat down with new DA-8 Regional Executive Director Milo D. De los Reyes on, February 1, 2019 at the Office of the Regional Executive Director, Department of Agriculture, Kanhuraw Hill Tacloban City. Mr. Danilo E. Daria the former Coop Chairman and resident of Tunga, Leyte, together with Board of Director Ricardo Labastida and member Ms. Delia D. Revamonte both of Jaro, Leyte accompanied by Information Chief Mr. Francisco Rosaroso and staff Ms. Ma. Christine Co l a s i t o h a d a 3 0 m i n u t e s audience with new DA-8 RED Milo de los Reyes today. In the brief dialogue, he encouraged them to come up with their own agribusiness projects which they could sustain, given the characteristics of their respective areas and market. As such he also encouraged them to consider going beyond the obvious demand of a product, such as cassava as feed for pigs which could be a potential source of income. Dir. De los Reyes also promised them of the agency’s all out support, considering that EVOFPC is a registered cooperative with the Cooperatives Development Authority (CDA) and the only group representing the graduates of DA’s very first broadcast course on Organic Agriculture Production way back in 2012.

The Saints that Guard from page 28

As part of SPPMPCI’s social responsibility, it also maintains a regular scholarship program that accommodate at least 10 deserving students of its farmer-members at a time, shouldering the daily and book allowances including other related school expenses from high school to college.

He committed to support them thru corn and livestock production. He also advised them to focus on specific enterprise which they could manage within their respective groups, with the EVOFPC as an assembler to market their corn and cassava with such established market outlets in the region. “The Department of Agriculture is here to help you, provided these proposed projects really came from your own group because you yourselves know what you want and what could really help you,” he stressed. Earlier today, some 38 officers and members came to attend today’s Special General Assembly. This meeting was presided by EVOFPC President Mr. Diomedes P. Manjeron of Basey, Samar.

An important agenda discussed was whether to still continue the operations of this cooperative and the various business enterprises they could possibly engage within the year. EVOFPC was formed from the 110 graduates of the DA-8’s broadcast course University on the Air on Organic Agriculture Production in 2012 coming from 16 municipalities in Leyte and Samar. EVOFPC has already received several organic farm machineries, such as shredder, vermicomposting facilities, grass cutter and decoction facilities since 2015-2017. The next regular monthly meeting is on March 2, 2019 at Basey, Samar.

People from all walks of life got interested in joining the organization and became highly conscious of cooperative movement. Today, its members has grown dramatically to more than 8,000 individuals, and has expanded its coverage areas to other municipalities such as: Anahawan, San Francisco, Macrohon and Silago, all of Southern Leyte. As if these are not enough, the cooperative also transcends boundaries when it successfully established two branches in the towns of Hindang and Abuyog, both in Leyte province. Among the slew of exemplary achievements or milestones of SPPMPC were the acquisition of the following worthy projects: 1. The Farm Level Grains Center built through loan assistance from DA’s Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (formerly National Food and Agriculture

Council); 2. Two- Storey Pensionne House with fully air-conditioned rooms and function hall; 3. Corn mill facility constructed within the 150 hectare FLGC Compound; 4. A one-stop-hardware store where construction materials are being sold catering to, not only the coop members, but the community and nearby towns; and as earlier mentioned, 5. The construction of Commercial Center under BOT scheme wherein after 20-year of operation the management and ownership of the center will be turned over to the LGU; But more than the physical infrastructures, the multi-purpose coop has been overly aggressive in providing its farmer-members with financial assistance ranging from farm capitalization or palay

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Two farmer-cousins in the name of Mr. Felimon Segovia (70) and Mr. Juanito Segovia (71) of Barangays Sto. Nino Uno and Otama, respectively, took pride in being members of this coop for more than 3 decades. According to Mano Felimon he has five children and all of them became professionals because of the loan assistance provided by SPPMPC. While Mano Juanito also echoed similar praises to the cooperative for always being there for them. Both proudly narrated how they were able to succeed in their farming endeavors and met the needs of their respective familites “all because of good graces first from God, then from the two Saints – meaning the Sts. Peter and Paul Cooperative.” “If not for SPPMPC, we are not sure if we could have been as successful farmers as we are now,” the two farmer-cousins finally stated in unison.

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The Saints that Guard and Guide Farmers in Hinunangan, S. Leyte Over the past 50 years, the cooperative movement is alive and even getting stronger in Hinunangan, Southern Leyte due to the enduring presence of a farmers organization known as “Saints Peter and Paul Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SPPMPC)”. The name which bears two popular biblical characters by itself implies deep religiosity of the townsfolk. Their long-lasting belief that Saints Peter and Paul had given them all they need rooted back to the time of Rev. Fr. Frederick Wakeheim, a Canadian Scarboro Missionary who founded and transformed this coop from scratch to one of the most viable, dynamic and richest farmer cooperatives in Eastern Visayas. SPPMPC is also the first nongovernment organization in Region 8 which is currently engaged in the Build Operate and Transfer Project in partnership with the local government unit of Hinunangan. Said BOT project involved the financing and construction by the cooperative of the PhP15-million commercial complex which is now being used as the town’s public market. In an exclusive interview with the BOD Chairman Mr. Honorato Vacal, Jr., he said that the municipal government did not spend a single centavo for the project, which consists of 35 stalls and a 90 room pension house.

Accordingly, this commercial center will be converted into a community Hospital when the complex is turned over to the local government

admitted though that they have also experienced some rough rides. In fact, during its formative years, there were times the cooperative almost went down financially, but because of the strong and persistent spiritual guidance of its founder the late Fr. Wakeheim, the cooperative has ostensibly learned the trick of recovering fast in every storm that besets them.

after 20 years as stipulated in the signed BOT Contract. SPPMPC literally started from scratch with a meager capital of only PhP837.50 in the year 1968. This initial capital was sourced out from the 36 original members who respectively contributed 25 pieces of coconut before processing them into dried copra . Today, this farmers’ cooperative is continuously growing and on its way to becoming a billionaire’s coop with a whooping capital asset of PhP850Million. In the words of Mr. Vacal, “thru the years, Sts. Peter and Paul is considered a financial icon to its more than 8,000 coop members. Many of them had successfully lifted their families out of extreme poverty because of the programs and services being extended by SPPMPC,” Mr. Vacal pointed out. In more than 5 decades of cooperative existence, the BOD Chair

Fr. Wakeheim is fondly remembered as an intuitive and dedicated institution builder, thus he exhorted the pioneering 36 members to set aside at least 25 pieces of their coconut harvest, processed them into copra and the money generated served as initial capital, and the rest is history. But according to Mr. Vacal, it’s not always rosy-all-days for the coop, things get rough too when they experienced delay in the collection of loans from delinquent farmermembers. However, due to majority’s synergistic resolve to pursue their goals, SPPMPC eventually recovers until it totally bounced back and attracted the attention of government agencies and institutions. In 2001, SPPMPC became one of the national Gawad Saka Awardees. This is the Department of Agriculture’s most prestigious award, which helped much in boosting the image and cooperative zeal of the officers and members, resulting in the enticement of more farmers to join the coop in either regular or associate membership status. to page 29

Celebrating the Life of SAAD Rural Women

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The National Women’s Month Celebration every March is part of the worldwide observance of the International Women’s Day. Its theme, “We Make Change Work for Women,” highlights the empowerment of women as active contributors to and claimholders of development. Empowering women enables them to confidently and meaningfully engage with appropriate institutions to ensure that they contribute to and benefit from development and changes. SAAD Program, which has been in existence since 2016, has paved the way for an enabling environment for women to be empowered. Through the various interventions initiated mostly in the countryside for poor and marginalized farmers, the program is gender–responsive and has always been a partner for change. It has consistently emphasized the need for collective effort, collaboration, and participation to ensure that women are not left behind in the pursuit of change. During the 2019 1st quarter monitoring blitz in randomly–selected program areas of Region 8, it is heartwarming to note that in almost all areas visited, the role of women as active change agents has been emphasized. Women were observed to be involved in critical decision–making and in all aspects of project implementation. In a patriarchal society such as the Philippines,’ to be heard and have a voice in decision–making are indeed major achievements for Filipino women, especially those living in rural areas.

Progressive associations ran predominantly by women, such as the Rural Improve–ment Club (RIC) of Brgy. Libas, Lavezares, Northern Samar; Cansoso Livelihood Association of Workers (CLAW) of Brgy. Cansoso, Matag–ob, Leyte; and New Katipunan Farmer’s Association (NEKAFAA), Brgy. New Katipunan, Malitbog, Southern Leyte; to name a few, attest to the fact that, given the enabling environment to access equal rights opportunities, make reasonable decisions, and be able to implement them, women could be empowered. Women who were selected as individual project beneficiaries have also shown due diligence in ensuring that the assistance given them by the program is never wasted. Rather, because of the drive to better their situation for the sake of their family, most have already graduated from mere food producers to processors, and subsequently, independent entrepreneurs. Of

course, the unconditional support of the family is also a crucial contributor to their success. A case in point is the unassuming Hazel Socorro of Brgy. Balnasan, San Roque, Northern Samar, a Swine Fattening Project beneficiary, who was given an incentive by the MLGU in the form of a buffalo for garnering the highest sales of PhP37,500.00 among all swine fattening project beneficiaries in the locality within one (1) production cycle. Nancy Montillano of Brgy. Sabang, Oras, Eastern Samar, initially received three (3) piglets and feeds from the 2017 SAAD Program Hog Fattening Project. From being a hog fattener, she has gradually evolved into an entrepreneur, now owning a sari–sari store. The anecdotes above are just a drop in the bucket of women who strove to rise from life’s adversities and came out victorious. They opted to work and make a living alongside their partners instead

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Elevating the Status of Farmers The life of a farmer is never easy, as a farmers’ association president quipped during the turnover of 2016 SAAD Program farm machinery/ equipment in Brgy. Old Manunca, Sta. Rita, Samar on February 8, 2019. The ill–effects of climate change, the searing heat during El Niño and mud that clings to the feet in La Niña, escalating prices of farm inputs, and other agricultural concerns, exacerbated by domestic problems, render farming practice frustrating and oftentimes tiresome to the ordinary food producer, especially the middling ones. The scenario highlights the need for consultation with the farmers on their specific requirements in order to address their various concerns. This, SAAD Program carried out with the stratified Multi– Year Planning (MYP) workshops held in 2018, documentation of which was featured in the September 2018 issue of Peryodikit. Plans from all sectors, from the national to the farmer level, were deliberated to make certain that opinions from all stakeholders were considerably included.

Periodic monitoring activities likewise provided program management the opportunity to get a grasp of what’s afoot at the grassroots level. The two monitoring activities conducted in September 2018 and January 2019 were instrumental in getting first–hand information about farmers’ experiences, their joys, travails, and hopes for themselves, their family, and community. From testimonies of project recipients, it was heartwarming to learn that the interventions put in place by the program made a dent in varying degrees in their life. Some of them were already able to make home improvements using the income they derived from the endeavor. Others have leveled up from production to processing and value–adding activities to become micro–entrepreneurs. SAAD Program interventions also include the development of farmers’ capacities through specialized trainings on appropriate technologies, aside from handholding and mentoring activities conducted during regular visits of field personnel to their

farms. After a lifetime of rice farming, some have only realized the value of full fertilization upon undergoing Farmers’ Field School and experiencing increased volume of production. First–time corn farmers in Malitbog, Southern Leyte, cultivating six (6) hectares. of rolling hills, were previously hesitant to venture into hitherto unknown territory because of uncertainties about marketing the voluminous product, but upon assurances of OPA and PPMSO– Southern Leyte that their harvest would be contracted for purchase by PHCCI, they proceeded to plant the commodity. SAAD Program’s promotion of farm mechanization through the provision of equipment/ machinery and small tools runs parallel to the Department of Agriculture’s thrust to mechanize farms in order to improve productivity. Qualified FAs became recipients of these technological devices, such as tractor with complete accessories, irrigation pump, multi–cultivator, thresher, etc. after having undergone to page 25

Ramdam na” from page 23

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for giving of awards by the MLGU to deserving farmers. 3. OPA–Southern Leyte, in coordination with PPMSO, assists farmers in marketing their products. Product assemblers, Zaragoza and PHCCI, had been contracted to purchase on a wholesale basis the farmers’ harvested cassava and co rn , re s p e c t ive ly. In t h e marketing of pigs, the office al s o facilitated in selling the beneficiaries’ harvested swine to local butchers/buyers. 4. In Matuguinao, Samar, all beneficiaries of the Swine Production Project agreed that for every delivery of the gilt, 2 weanlings will be donated to the Municipal Agriculture Office for rollover to next–in–line beneficiaries

who have not yet availed of the intervention. The farmers themselves will agree on whom to give the piglet/s. If the FB decides to give only 1 weanling, then he/she should donate 3 upon the next delivery. In the succeeding monitoring sorties, for sure there are still success stories waiting to unfold. Gauging from the results of the past monitoring

rounds, there seems to be a great possibility of good things to come in the program areas. The challenge posed to project management and implementors now is on how to sustain the level of interest of farmer–beneficiaries in keeping up the achievements, and even bring them to a higher level, one step at a time.

Celebrating the Life from page 13 of being fence–sitters indulging in unproductive pastimes, and those who caused their collective voices to be heard and continue to make a difference in their respective spheres of influence. So, to all wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, aunts, nieces, widows, single parents, and the like, in this, the National Women’s Month, SAAD Program salutes and commends you for your fortitude, patience, and grace amidst domestic and societal challenges that you face every day. Let change work for women!

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Secretary Piñol Declares (from page 1) At the same time he asked the Provincial government of Samar, represented by Provincial Administrator Ms. Anita R. Taran, to stop illegal fishing in the coastal waters of Samar; They can avail of loans to build Norwegian model fishcages worth P450,000.00each, aside from feeds and fingerlings. Undersecretary for Fisheries and BFAR National Director Commodore Eduardo B. Gongona and BFAR 8 Regional Director Juan Albaladejo were also directed to bring them on a learning experience to the fishcages at Malang, Davao City to observe how these are managed by the various fishery organizations and the local government unit.

Secretary Pinol said these commitments show the government’s sincere desire to at least help improve the quality of life of the marginalized sector of farmers, fisherfolks and their families specially since they themselves identified these projects. At the same time he said this is also a challenge to everyone inasmuch as we need to improve our food production and match it with our growing population growth.

DA-8 RED Milo de los Reyes (from page 4) and the Regional Secretariat, as well as discuss the implementing mechanisms and processes.

The day-long activity was also attended in by DA-8 Assistant Director Elvira C. Torres who is the Vice -Chair of the Technical Working Group on DA-CSO Accreditation, gave a brief review on the provisions of Administrative Order No. 8 series of 2017, or the “Guidelines for the Accreditation of CSOs” emphasizing the role of the CSOs as the agency’s partners to efficiently and effectively carry out the implementation of agri fishery projects and encourage peoples’ participation in agricultural development; Among others, she emphasized the CSOs important role to ensure that only DA-accredited CSOs can participate in the implementation of

the agency’s program and projects while at the same time promote transparency and accountability; improve the system of check and balance; safeguard the use and allocation of government resources. Thus, in her message, she said that she is pleased at last that the agency has more partners in the monitoring of agriculture and fishery based projects throughout the region and hopes that they will take this responsibility seriously and help the office maximize its resources for the intended clients.

Farm Machinery under SAAD Program Distributed to FAs in Samar The following shows a summary of LGU-beneficiaries and the respective farm machinery distributed:

Eighty–five (85) farmers’ associations were the recipients of farm equipment/ machinery that were turned over to them by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA)–Samar through the respective municipal local government units (MLGUs) in ceremonies held across Samar province on February 6–8, 2019.

The recipients expressed their heartfelt gratitude to President Rodrigo R. Duterte, DA Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol, SAAD Program, and concerned LGUs for this machinery grant, vowing to share the use of the common service facilities (CSFs) with other farmers in neighboring areas and maintain their good working condition.

These inputs consisting of 76 hand tractors and 50 irrigation pumps are a component of the 2016 SAAD Program Rice Production Enhancement Project donated to Samar PLGU, which is intended to help farmer–beneficiaries in their rice farming activity. It is also a way of introducing farm mechanization in rural areas, which is a priority thrust of the government envisioned to boost the productivity and income of our lowly food producers.

During the turnover ceremony in each selected municipality, farmers were oriented about the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) before their signing and actual distribution, in the presence of local officials. It was emphasized in the MOA that the association/s should formulate a policy on the proper utilization of these equipment. And as a gesture of goodwill, the Provincial Local Government of Samar shouldered the notarization of all MOAs.

1. Basey (hand tractor – 9; irrigation pump – 7) 2. Calbayog City (hand tractor – 8; irrigation pump – 6) 3. Calbiga (hand tractor – 4; irrigation pump – 2) 4. Catbalogan City (hand tractor – 4; irrigation pump – 3) 5. Daram (hand tractor – 1; irrigation pump – 1) 6. Gandara (hand tractor – 5; irrigation pump – 2) 7. Jiabong (hand tractor – 5; irrigation pump – 3) 8. Marabut (hand tractor – 1; irrigation pump – 1) 9. Motiong (hand tractor – 5; irrigation pump – 2) 10. Paranas (hand tractor – 4; irrigation pump – 3) 11. Pagsanghan (hand tractor – 1; irrigation pump – 1) 12. Pinabacdao (hand tractor – 5; irrigation pump – 3) 13. San Jorge (hand tractor – 5; irrigation pump – 4) 14. San Sebastian (hand tractor – 1; irrigation pump – 1) 15. Sta. Margarita (hand tractor – 5; irrigation pump – 3) 16. Sta. Rita (hand tractor – 9; irrigation pump – 5) 17. Tarangnan (hand tractor – 3; irrigation pump – 2) 18. Villareal (hand tractor – 1; irrigation pump – 1)

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Hold on! The positive outlook of farmers as manifested in the past two project monitoring activities held in September 2018 and January 2019 is a boon to program implement – ation because it boosts the morale of field staff/personnel as well as the beneficiaries themselves. Majority of the recipients were profuse in thanking SAAD Program management during these periodic visits for what some of them consider as “stroke of luck” or “good fortune” to have been bestowed with this unexpected assistance. The poorest of the poor, especially those who received the grant for the first time, were appreciative because, according to them, the government has finally reached out to them, which they have not experienced with any other program before. Hence, it is just right that this goodwill is reciprocated by sustaining the projects and even sharing to others the material benefits they are now enjoying, they added.

As strategized during the series of multi–year planning workshops conducted in 2018, these identified grantees will be assisted consistently by the program, until management deems that they can be considered financially independent already. For now, however, the inputs must still be continued to level up from where they started to entrepreneurial level. The coaching, mentoring, and handholding activities should be maintained as well to guide and instruct the farmers, yet always conscious of their traditional mores, attitudes, and indigenous practices.

As it is, the individual farmers and their associations are happy and content with the given inputs. Even those who had not been as successful initially in their respective endeavors due to animal mortality or crop loss are still hopeful that they can recover in the next production cycle or succeeding planting season. It has become evident at this time that best practices worth emulating have evolved, enhancing project implementation. These practices, such as the offer of incentives,

Elevating the from page 14

which were initiated by the LGUs, and the farmers themselves, without prodding from the program, encourage the recipients to outdo each other’s performance, in the process benefiting them and their families. Others were put in place to improve systems and procedures. As SAAD Program advances into the midterm, the management would like to convey one very important message to all stakeholders – HOLD ON! Continue with the initiatives in the pursuit of its goals for obviously it is on the right track. Barring any unforeseen circumstances that would render the program inutile, there is bright promise that our food producers are on the road to becoming economically self–sufficient by end of project period, and even beyond. The silver lining seems to finally loom at the horizon.

rigorous evaluation. Currently, the beneficiary groups are enjoying the use of these equipment, which according to them are an immense help, lightening their burden, while ostensibly lowering production cost. Certainly, management cannot discount the reality that a handful are still at the start–up level up to t h e p re s e n t t im e d u e t o a confluence of factors, but most have already reaped the fruits of their hard work through sheer industry and determination.

production and income, but more so in their knowledge, practices, and attitude towards farming, which is their lifeline to advancement. No doubt, more positive testimonies are forthcoming as SAAD Program advances into the midterm. SAAD

Program reaches out to as many beneficiaries as it can serve to make a difference as the country goes full momentum into agricultural progress.

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From the foregoing, which shows vivid proof of the projects’ impact in the life of farmers, there is consistent gradual improvement in their status, not only in their

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Ramil A. Pederio: The Hardworking Swine Farmer (BFA), which is DOLE–registered. He is not as actively involved in the group, much as he would like to, because of his various pre–occupations. He is constantly on the lookout for endeavors that would earn for him additional income.

In the remote islet barangay of Buenavista, in Rosario town, Northern Samar, resides a farmer whose personality inspires those whom he meets because of his positive outlook and determination to succeed. Despite the hardships of everyday life, he remains bubbly and optimistic that the assistance provided by SAAD Program to his family will continue to prosper. The milieu where Ramil A. Pederio. 41, and his family of five dwell, can be reached by a 20–minute banca ride from the town proper of Rosario, through waterways bounded by mangroves and sparse coconut trees. Typical of a rustic area, life can be characterized as laid back and unhurried; and from dawn to dusk, people are mainly concerned with survival. For the past 18 years, Ramil has been cultivating same 1–hectare rice field as tenant–farmer, but he also indulges in fishing as an avocation. He is a part–time laborer earning PhP250.00/day for construction/carpentry works. He said he must double his efforts to prepare for the needs of his eldest son who would soon be in college.

Ramil is a member of the Buenavista Farmers Association

Hence, he considered it a windfall that he was selected as one of five (5) beneficiaries of the Swine Fattening Project, which was granted by SAAD Program to Brgy. Buenavista. As with other project recipients, at first, he was hesitant to engage in the project because of his apprehension that should it fail, or if the hogs suddenly expire, he would be required to pay for the intervention costs. But he was prevailed upon by the MLGU staff, to which he relented. O n D e c e m b e r 6 , 2 0 1 7, R a m i l received 3 heads swine, 4.5 sacks started feeds, 6 sacks grower seeds, and 2 sacks finisher feeds. Upon maturity, he sold the pigs, earning PhP17,000.00 in the process. From the proceeds, he bought 3 more heads swine and sold them for the 2nd phase. From the income he derived, he purchased a carabao weanling for PhP12,000.00, which in time he plans to use in the rice farm.

During our most recent monitoring visit, he was again raising 3 piglets for fattening. As to the feeds, additional eight sacks of supplementary feeds arrived in August 2018. According to him, these are more than enough to sustain the growth of the pigs until they are ready for the market. As parting message, he quipped, “An akon la kay pararehas man kami nga yaon guintagan san panginabuhi san SAAD, paabot ko sa ira nga pahalagahan man nira an mga guinhatag sa ira, ngan diri nira sin sayangon la kay dako dako nga bulig ini sa suga sa amu nga mga wara. Kun puydi la, ma–iro ba nira ako nga nakabalyo na ak sin karabaw, tapos nakabulig sa ako sa pagpaeskuyla, tapos sa amon pamilya.” (In my opinion, because we were equally given livelihood by SAAD Program, I would like to convey to other recipients that they should value what were given them, and they should not squander [the opportunity] as it is a very big help to us who do not have much. If possible, they should consider me as example because I was already able to buy a carabao that helped in financing the schooling of my children, and for our family.)

Mainstreaming AMIA in DA’s Plans, Programs, and Budget Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. In tabular form, they listed specific interventions, their respective locations, possible hazards that these interventions are exposed to, and appropriate actions to reduce vulnerabilities and exposure.

A Seminar–Workshop on Mainstreaming AMIA in the Department of Agriculture’s Plans, Programs, and Budget was recently held at the Visayas State University EcoFARMI, Baybay City on March 25– 27, 2019. It was participated in by eighteen (18) personnel of the DA–Regional Field Office 8 coming from different divisions/sections. Resource persons came from DA Central Office, while officials and staff of the EcoFARMI served as facilitators and secretariat. The workshop was aimed at incorporating possible climate change adaptation and mitigation measures in the DA banner programs for each of six (6) identified hazards, as follows: typhoon, drought, heavy rainfall, increasing temperature, sea level rise, and ocean acidification. At the Opening Program, Prof. Francisco G. Gabunada welcomed the participants in lieu of the University President Dr. Edgardo E. Tulin. OIC RTD for Operations and AMIA Regional Focal Person, Dr. Andrew Rodolfo T. Orais, gave the Opening Remarks in behalf of OIC RED Milo D. Delos Reyes, who

was engaged in an equally important activity. To lay the foundation for the seminar, Dir. U–Nichols A. Manalo of DA– SWCCO discussed the following topics: Agriculture and Fishery Modernization Plan, Climate Change Resiliency, and Disaster Risk Reduction. Ms. Armylene B. Posada of PMS, DA–Central Office firmed up the discussion on AFMA 2018–2023 during the 2nd day of the workshop, where she elaborated on the expanded economic opportunities for those engaged in agriculture, fishery, and forestry; and increased access of small and subsistence farmers and fisherfolk to economic opportunities. Next, the results of the Climate Resilience Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA) for Leyte was presented by Prof. Alan B. Loreto, while for CRVA–Samar, Prof. Pastor P. Garcia was the discussant. Having had sufficient background for the task that lay ahead, the participants delved into the workshop proper. Participants were grouped according to program and worked on the first template, which was

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On the second template (Disaster Preparedness), given the interventions and potential hazards, the groups proposed on what actions would be done to prepare the communities in the face of these calamities, on the premise that based from experience or history, hazards can be forecasted. During the presentation of outputs, the group representatives from the HVCDP, AMAD, Corn & Livestock Programs, RAED, and Regulatory Division, and even the DA Experiment Station, reported on each component’s initiatives to counter, or at least minimize, the effects of climate change. These outputs would henceforth be assimilated into the overall results of the nationwide consultations with DA regional offices and concerned agencies. Finally, APCO Jason H. Fabillar discussed the current Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) status of the office. Dir. Manalo, in his speech, emphasized that the AMIA mainstreaming is a continuous process that cannot be done overnight, but with the unqualified support and cooperation of all concerned, sooner than later the initiatives would be fully integrated into the DA system.

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New Beginnings The start of a year is usually the opportune time to take stock of what had been, what now, and what is to come. On a personal level, it is the right time to reflect and contemplate on past achievements, successes, lapses in judgment, challenges, and other considerations that we deem important to our lives. For corporate endeavors, such as the implementation of the SAAD Program, new years are a time to evaluate past performances, streamline and consolidate forces, and plan out strategies to improve project implementation. Thus, it was with this mindset that the FY 2019 SAAD Program Special Meeting was conducted at Sophia’s Way, Leyte Park Resort Hotel, Tacloban City on January 25, 2019. Before the meeting formally started, there was preliminary consultation with the PPMSOs regarding issues in the respective areas that contributed to/bogged down the development of projects. Area Coordinators (ACs) present were reviewed on the right process of validating FBs, amid feedbacks of irregularities in the selection of the latter. Some operational and administrative matters were also taken up prior to the meeting proper. Dr. Andrew Rodolfo T. Orais, RTD for Operations and SAAD Program 8 Regional Focal Person, warmly welcomed the participants consisting of key implementors – program management, PMED, AMAD, APCOs, and field officers and staff.

“Ramdam na”

Each Provincial Coordinator (PC) of the five (5)–covered provinces presented his/her FY 2016–2018 Production Report, by Project, according to a standard report form

provided by RPMSO. The discussions were lively, informative, and revealing. The panel of reactors of f e r e d o b j e c t i v e s u g g e s t i o n s / recommendations to further enhance the level of development of interventions in the poor communities. Among the agreements reached by the discussants are as follows: 1. In line with the program thrust, which is geared towards organizing individuals into associations, the staff, particularly ACs, need to be trained on basic skills in community organizing so they could facilitate the process among FBs, until they are registered with the proper accreditation agency/ ies. ACs also need to be trained on value formation, leadership skills, organizational strengthening, simple bookkeeping, etc. so they could ultimately cascade these competencies to the farmers. 2. Check the 2017 downloaded funds to the provinces if there are savings, so mortalities of animals can be replaced, i.e. goat in Eastern

Samar. But timely damage report has to be filed for the savings to be used for stock replacement. 3. Get the percentage of gilts that were inseminated but did not bear weanlings, or poultry that did not lay eggs, so the concerned supplier is informed for appropriate action. 4. Follow–up trainings for FBs should be conducted, according to their felt needs. If there is need to train them on appropriate technologies, marketing, and the like, they should be prioritized using funds from accrued savings. PC Ferdinand Q. Ultra proposed to conduct a Farmers’ Day in Northern Samar to orient recipient farmers on best/ improved practices. In closing the forum, RTD Orais urged the officers and staff to learn from each other’s experiences and mistakes; refine/polish their practices until they are perfected; maintain active, healthy dialogue and exchange of ideas; and foster goodwill among the farmers and other stakeholders.

“Ramdam na,” which is slang vernacular for “Nararamdaman na” (It is already being felt), sums up the impression of grateful beneficiaries who were privileged to receive varied assistance from 2017–2018 SAAD Program. This was the preponderant appreciation from the recipients of “unexpected whirlwind of blessings” coming from the government. This overall impression was floated on during the 2nd round of project monitoring conducted in January 2019. Farmers who were benefited by the implemented projects were enthusiastic in welcoming the M&E team, eager as they were to relate their experiences. They seemed to possess an added boost to their morale because of perceived financial independence

and the prospect of generating potential earning in the future. The impact of the projects may not have manifested yet during the swing of monitoring conducted earlier on in the 5 SAAD Program–covered provinces sometime in September 2018. However, 5 months later, it is already felt by the recipients, albeit moderately, especially those who have already gone through several cycles of production. Results of the 1st formal monitoring held last year were featured in the September 2018 issue of Peryodikit. The findings during the 1st monitoring were validated in January 2019. These were in the areas of beneficiary selection, delivery and distribution of inputs, and project coordination. More findings were highlighted in this year’s monitoring, such as the variance of breed/ variety of delivered inputs from those specified in the PRs. An example of which is the ube cuttings supplied to farmers in Calbiga, Samar. They were of mixed type: tinampay and inuringnon, even if it was specified in the PR that the variety required was of the former kind due to its aroma, color, customer preference, and ease in processing. In the latest project monitoring, some best practices have surfaced

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that possibly contributed to the viability of the interventions implemented in the poor communities. Among these outstanding features worth adopting in other areas are as follows: 1. Incentive/s given by LGU to high–performing farmers boost their morale. In the case of Hazel Socorro of San Roque, Northern Samar, the Honorable Mayor awarded her a buffalo for garnering the highest sale of PhP37,500.00 among all swine fattening project beneficiaries. A similar case happened in Oras, Eastern Samar in June 2018, where Honorable Mayor Vivian P. Alvarez gave 2 piglets each to the top three swine fatteners who, upon harvest, obtained the highest gross weight. 2. A duly–notarized Affidavit of Recipient is issued, copy furnished MLGU–San Roque, Northern Samar for every sale made by the FB. This is in the best interest of SAAD Program as the recipient cannot dispose of his/her commodity anytime at his/her discretion because it is being monitored by the LGU. The document may also be the basis

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Lavezares Women Entrepreneurs Awarded with the Seal of Good Governance, the Municipality of Lavezares in Northern Samar, is a 4th class municipality. It is rich in natural resources – its undulating hills planted to coconuts; the coastal waters protected by natural breakwaters, or bacolods, serve as lush fishing grounds for the local fisherfolk; and the few flat lands are suitable for irrigated rice, fruit trees, and crops. Ecotourism is becoming popular because of the fine, white sand beaches in its coastal and groups of island barangays, and the coral reefs are good for scuba diving. Yet, despite this progressive picture, there is perceived poverty of many townspeople, which is why the municipality was selected as beneficiary of the SAAD Program in 2016. One community resident is Marivic Tomada, President of the Rural Improvement Club (RIC) of Brgy. Libas, who is a beneficiary of the swine fattening project. She,

together with 34 other women members of the group, received 3 piglets, 4.5 bags Pigrolac starter feeds, and 2.5 bags growing mass as starting capital for a viable backyard hog–raising venture. Before SAAD Program was launched, Marivic and her fellow housewives were engaged in selling kakanin and whatever livelihood they could take on. However, the income they derived from various endeavors was simply not enough to support their families. Much to their relief, when the program materialized, they have something to hope for that could augment their small, gainful undertakings. They immediately revived the RIC, an organization registered with DOLE on May 25, 2014. Monthly dues were again collected, and raffle draws held to support its lending program. They also have regular meetings to update members on the status of each household

beneficiary and plans to sustain the project. Recently, they were able to establish an office where members converge for their periodic activities. Also, they intend to discuss plans on what to do with the swine upon maturity. Each beneficiary was then advised by the SAAD Program monitoring team to observe proper waste disposal, especially those living near a river/waterway.

Commodities and supplies delivered to selected LGUs

These women are optimistic that with this livelihood assistance, they will be able to expand or multiply swine production or sell/market the pigs with some value added products, such as longganisa, tocino, or lechon. This way they are assured of sustainable development, which is a requisite of the program’s poverty alleviation goal.

In a blitz of successive deliveries to selected municipalities in Samar Island, poultry heads consisting of ready–to–lay chickens, native chickens, and mallard ducks, were transported to and received by agriculture officials in different locations and drop–off points fr o m February 12–15, 2019. Subsequently, the birds were distributed to identified beneficiaries at 6 heads per farmer.

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Six hundred (600) heads of ready– to–lay chickens were delivered in equally same number to Dolores, Maslog, Gen. MacArthur, and Quinapondan, Eastern Samar, while 432 heads per municipality were delivered to Mapanas, Palapag, and Lapinig, Northern Samar. For the

native chickens, which are replacement stocks, 360 heads per LGU–recipient went to Silvino Lobos and Lope de Vega in Northern Samar. Earlier on, 180 bags of layer premium feeds were delivered to Silvino Lobos and same number of bags to Lope de Vega on January 31, 2019. Two hundred forty (240) heads of mallard ducks were respectively brought to the following LGUs: Catubig, Las Navas, and Pambujan, Northern Samar; Borongan City and Hernani, Eastern Samar; and Hinabangan, Matuguinao, San Jose de Buan, San Sebastian, and Talalora, Samar. Veterinarians of the Livestock Section, DA–RFO 8 who facilitated

in the inspection of the fowls accompanied the deliveries. Meanwhile, one hundred forty–six (146) bottles/vials of drugs and biologics were respectively transported to Northern Samar and Leyte. They comprised of multivitamins (10), wound spray (20), Iron Dextran (10), dewormers (100), Oxytocine (4), and Oxytritra cycline (2). Twenty– one (21) bags complete fertilizer (14–14–14) were likewise delivered to the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Calbiga, Samar on February 8, 2019 for use of FBs in the Ube Production Project.

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DA RFO 8 GAD Focal Point System celebrates Int’l Women’s Day

DA conducts marketing forum on ube, peanut

The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 (DA-RFO 8) conducted the Agribusiness Investment Seminar and Marketing Forum on Ube and Peanut cum Agri-Credit Program Orientation on February 26-28, 2019 at the San Isidro Youth Center, San Isidro, Leyte.

Anchored on the theme, “We Make Change Work for Women,” the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 (DA RFO 8) convened its Gender and Development (GAD) Technical Working Group to celebrate International Women’s Day through an Organizational Meeting in Tacloban City.

interventions of the agency should be GAD-responsive and sensitive. Dir. Torres likewise discussed GAD concepts and issues which are relevant inputs in the preparation work plan for GAD-related activities. “The management should be at the forefront in the GAD implementation,” Dir. Torres averred.

Following the reconstitution of the agency’s GAD Focal Point System which is now chaired by OICRegional Executive Director, Milo D. Delos Reyes, the agency deemed it necessary to hold a meeting with the new members of the group. DA RFO 8 GAD’s Focal Person, ARD Elvira C. Torres emphasized in her m e s s a g e t h a t t h e p r o g ra m

Meantime, Ms Lorna A. Villegas, Assistant Head of the GAD National Technical Working Group of the DA Central Office said “We should have an enabling environment for women, to ensure that we will not be left behind in terms of development.” She also shared updates on mainstreaming GAD in the DA’s programs.

Other topics discussed were the Eastern Visayas GAD Situationer by Ms Zonia C. Salazar of the Philippine Statistics Authority-8, the Search for Outstanding Rural Women by Ms Jo Ann B. Pera of the GAD National Technical Working Group of the DA Central Office, and the Gender-Responsive Economic Actions for the Transformation of Women (GREAT) Women Project by Ms Mai Lin Granados of the Philippine Commission on Women.

Spearheaded by the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), the three-day activity aimed at orienting the participants about the agribusiness opportunities on ube and peanut, as well as feature different market-related activities with the end-goal of generating investments and more income in the countryside. Farmers and extension workers coming from the municipalities of San Isidro, Tabango and Calubian attended the three-day activity. Mr. Larry U. Sultan, Supervising Agriculturist said that the activity focused on ube and peanut since there is the presence of institutional buyers which provide stable price and market demand for both crops.

He also pointed out the importance of organized groups to farmers. C u r r e n t l y, a s s o c i a t i o n s a n d cooperatives are prioritized to avail of the programs and projects of the government. Also, farmer groups can apply crop programming and act as consolidator, thus meeting the volume of products required by buyers. Recommended cultural management practices, market trends, and available government interventions for both crops were discussed. Enrolled under the High Value Crops Development Program, the Department of Agriculture can provide seeds, postharvest equipment, technical assistance and marketing support to farmers who are interested to venture in peanut production. Meanwhile, for ube, the banner program targets to provide support starting next year. Farmers were advised to consider partnering with a food manufacturing company under contract growing.

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With the task of developing farmers into entrepreneurs, technical persons from AMAD shared their expertise and insights on entrepreneurial and managerial competencies, business planning and marketing strategies. A workshop on investment concept followed to further assist the farmers on which crop they can develop as an enterprise. Said investment concept will not only serve as the output of the activity, but attest their capabilities in managing an enterprise. Later on, farmers can invite potential investors and sponsoring institutions to finance and upgrade their farms. On t h e part o f agri- c redi t programs, representatives from the Land Bank of the Philippines, Philippine Crop Insurance Council, Agricultural Credit Policy Council, and local cooperatives presented their different financing and lending services.