I-REAP gears up for PRDP Scale-Up

In preparation for the implementation of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Scale-Up, PRDP Caraga’s I-REAP component held a knowledge-sharing session on the Agro-Enterprise Clustering Approach (AECA) and Financing Assessment and Matching (FAst Match) Tools, as well as an orientation on the Cluster Development Plan (CDP), on November 9 and 10, 2023, respectively, at Butuan City.

The AECA, Fast Match toolkit, and Cluster Development Plan are essential tools newly integrated into the I-REAP component for the implementation of the Scale-Up, an expanded version of the original PRDP that will focus on clustering and consolidation strategies in fostering agri-fishery development.

I-REAP Component Head Lynn A. Pareñas emphasized how the activities are an opportunity to capacitate technical staff from DA PRDP and DA’s banner programs on the various tools that will enhance Project implementation, ensuring an effective delivery of services to DA’s stakeholders.

Staff from DA-PRDP’s I-REAP component presented the AECA and FAst Match Tools to staff from DA’s banner programs and special projects, including representatives from the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD), the Farm and Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation Program (F2C2), and the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4Ks) Program.

In turn, technical staff from F2C2 presented the clustering and consolidation strategies of the program, emphasizing the Cluster Development Plan (CDP) as a tool that develops the growth and development of the cluster to become a business enterprise.

“The central concept of the F2C2 is building economies of scale. While most farmers are smallholders, clustering will give them more leverage and bargaining power,” said Rebecca R. Atega, Regional Technical Director of the Field Operations Division and F2C2 Coordinator.

Deputy Project Director Jodel A. Tabada emphasized that the orientation will enhance the Regional Project Coordination Office’s (RPCO) strategies for the Scale-Up.

“This orientation is aimed at reaching a common understanding of the F2C2 clustering and consolidation approach, which will in turn improve our strategies, especially since the CDP is now a requirement in the implementation of I-REAP subprojects under the Scale-Up,” said Tabada.

While the Scale-Up will bank on the accomplishments of the original PRDP, it will shift its focus to clustering and consolidation strategies, a strengthened partnership with the private sector, and climate resilience as a common feature in its interventions. The PRDP Scale-Up will be implemented from 2023 to 2029.