ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL, Davao del Norte – The state of farming in other areas of Island Garden City of Samal is set to further improve as modern agricultural equipment, which is still inaccessible to farmers in other regions, has been provided to boost their farming capabilities.
The City Agriculture’s Office in Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte, has turned over agricultural equipment to the Tagbaobo and Aumbay Farmers Irrigators Service Association, Inc. (TAFISA).
The turnover included a rice combine harvester, a walk-behind rice planter, and two floating tillers, all of which were provided through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund Mechanization Program and entrusted to the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PHilMech). The total value of the equipment amounted to P2.33 million.
City Agri-OIC Jimuel Rebigan expressed his gratitude to the local government, under the leadership of Mayor Al David Uy, for their support in making the turnover possible.
With advancements in farming techniques, Rebigan encouraged farmers to gradually adopt these new technologies, especially now that the transition to digitalization is nearly complete, bringing farming and harvesting practices to an almost computerized level.
Vice Mayor Lemuel Reyes commended the farmers in Samal Island for their hard work and unity, which led to their selection as beneficiaries of the farm machinery.
Reyes also called on association members to work together in establishing cooperatives to generate additional income.
Councilor Adlwin Jumao-as, Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, reminded the recipients of the machinery to take good care of them, considering the fortunate situation of receiving equipment that is not yet accessible to farmers in other regions.
The support received was greatly appreciated by TAFISA President Jerry Roble, who thanked the local government officials and Cagro for their assistance in conveying their request to the national agency.
Roble expressed hope for continued support from the local government to further strengthen the farmers’ associations on the island. Their aim is to enhance the competitiveness of rice farmers and increase their income through the provision of seeds, mechanization, extension services, and credit services.
By providing farmers with the necessary resources and support, the Island Garden City of Samal sets an example for other provinces and regions in the Philippines, showcasing the importance of collaboration and investing in agriculture.
