5 farmers cooperatives get trucks, P15-M in aid

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- Farmers cooperatives in Bicol region received nearly PHP15 million in aid, including trucks and financial support, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said.

DA-Bicol Regional Executive Director Rodel Tornilla said the assistance to five cooperatives under the Corn and Cassava Program would enhance harvesting efficiency and transporting the produce.

The beneficiaries of the vehicles, each valued at PHP2.6 million, include the Daet Corn Growers Association, Inc. in Camarines Norte; the Pioduran Corn Cluster Organization and the Tula-Tula Pequeño Farmers’ Agriculture Cooperative in Albay; the Del Rosario Corn Farmers’ Association in Camarines Sur; and the Pandan Cassava Growers and Processors Federation in Catanduanes.

DA has provided financial assistance totaling PHP1.7 million to two qualified beneficiaries from Camarines Sur.

Under the Kadiwa financial grant assistance program, the Sipocot Farmers and Fisherfolk Agriculture Cooperative from Sipocot, Camarines Sur received PHP1.1 million.

The funding will be used to purchase a delivery vehicle for their Kadiwa on Wheels initiative and to serve as added capital for the cooperative’s operations.

Under the Agri-Entrepreneurship Capability Enhancement Assistance financial grant, the San Roque Sagumay Farmers Agriculture Cooperative from Nabua, Camarines Sur, received PHP639,000.

The funds will be allocated for the construction of a Kadiwa retail store. (PNA)