DA Bicol distributes P122-M in aid to farmers

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

PILI, Camarines Sur --- The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Bicol has provided P122 million worth of assistance to farmers’ cooperatives and organizations, aiming to enhance agricultural production and ensure food stability in the region, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s national agenda.

DA Bicol Regional Director Rodel P. Tornilla led the turnover of farm machinery, inputs, hauling trucks, and motorized boats to 76 farmers’ cooperatives and associations (FCAs) from Camarines Sur during the Kadiwa ng Pangulo event. This took place as part of the Trabaho at Serbisyong Pangkalusugan ng Bagong Pilipinas program held at the Camarines Sur Capitol Complex yesterday, an event graced by President Marcos.

According to DA Bicol spokesperson Lovella P. Guarin, the assistance included:

Rice Program: P14.6 million worth of interventions, including rice transplanters, tractors, mobile rice mills, certified palay seeds, and bio-fertilizers.

Corn Program: P26.5 million in support, featuring tractors, combine harvesters, hauling trucks, yellow corn seeds, and cassava stalks.

Livestock & Poultry: P66.8 million, with a major P50 million allocation for a slaughterhouse, along with animal hauling trucks and poultry projects under the LOVE for Agricultural Farming Communities initiative.

High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP): P2.3 million worth of tools, vegetable seeds, and farm equipment.

PhilMech: Three 4WD tractors worth P6.9 million under the Rice Competitive Enhancement Fund.

Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA): 400 hybrid coconut seedlings distributed.

Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA): One hauling truck worth P3.9 million.

Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR): Six motorized fiberglass boats, seaweed farm implements, and tilapia farm inputs worth P730,500.

The event also featured the Kadiwa ng Pangulo, where 30 exhibitors showcased various agricultural products. The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) sold 700 bags of rice at P29 per kilo, while the SARFC of Bula offered rice at P35 per kilo. The event recorded total sales of P581,336.

Before leading the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial proclamation rally, President Marcos joined the Trabaho at Serbisyong Pangkalusugan ng Bagong Pilipinas, a collaboration of the DSWD, DOLE, DOH, and DA to provide livelihood and health services.

Cabinet officials present included DSWD Secretary Rex T. Gatchalian, DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma, and DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. was represented by DA Bicol Regional Director Rodel P. Tornilla.

Also in attendance were Engr. Joel V. Dator (PhilMech), Engr. Gaudencio M. De Vera (NIA), Ariel U. Pioquinto (BFAR), and Atty. Marlon Terado (PCA).

The aid package and the President’s visit highlight the government’s commitment to boosting food production, supporting farmers, and ensuring economic stability in Bicol.