In a significant boost to local agriculture, the Department of Agriculture in Caraga (DA-13) has awarded a PHP5 million E-Kadiwa grant to the municipality of Santiago in Agusan del Norte. The grant was officially handed over on January 3, 2025, by DA-13 Regional Executive Director Arlan Mangelen to Mayor Zenaida Lim and Municipal Agriculturist Fe Maghanoy at the DA-13 office in Butuan City. This financial support is part of the Enhanced Kadiwa Financial Grant Assistance Program, designed to enhance the logistical capabilities of farmers’ groups. The funds will be used to acquire two delivery trucks, which will play a crucial role in transporting farm products to market centers within Agusan del Norte. According to the Santiago local government unit, these trucks will not only help in extending the shelf life of the produce but also increase its market value by ensuring timely and direct delivery to markets, thereby securing better prices for the farmers.
