In a significant boost to the agricultural sector, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. spearheaded the distribution of over PHP195 million in support to farmers’ cooperatives and associations in the Davao Region on January 23, 2025. The aid, comprising various agricultural projects and funds, was distributed across multiple programs aimed at enhancing farming efficiency and supporting local farmers.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) provided 28 hauling trucks valued at PHP85.5 million to 28 farmers’ groups in the region. These trucks, distributed under the Corn and Livestock Programs, are expected to improve the efficiency of agricultural product handling, ensuring timely delivery and better storage solutions, which in turn will make farming operations more cost-effective.
Additionally, a Quick Response Fund (QRF) of PHP28.2 million was allocated to the provinces of Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, and Davao Oriental. This fund will be used to procure essential livestock supplies, including feeds, concentrates, animal drugs, and biologics, to support the livestock sector in these areas.
Under the Organic Agriculture Livelihood Project (OALP), two farmers’ cooperatives received PHP1.9 million in assistance. The Participatory Guarantee System Davao Organic Farmers and Advocates Association in Tugbok District, Davao City, was awarded PHP929,870 for various interventions, while the Braulio E. Dujali Organic Producers and Rural Workers Association (BEDOPaRWA) in Braulio E. Dujali, Davao del Norte, received a rice mill valued at PHP1 million.
This comprehensive support package from the DA underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering the agricultural sector in the Davao Region, aiming to enhance productivity and sustainability in farming practices.