In the sprawling landscapes of Bataan, a transformative wave is sweeping across the agricultural sector, driven by initiatives under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s 8-point socioeconomic agenda.
With a resolute focus on bolstering local food production and empowering farmers, recent groundbreaking projects have been set in motion, aiming to enhance food security and increase farmers’ income.
Bridging the gap
The Limay Zero Kilometer Food Project, a collaborative endeavor between the Department of Agriculture (DA), local government units, and academic institutions, embodies a visionary approach to bridging the gap between food production and consumption.
In a statement resonating with determination, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. underscored the significance of these grassroots initiatives, emphasizing their pivotal role in addressing the pressing issue of food supply and demand at the local level.
“By promoting agriculture at the barangay level, we create efficient systems that ensure food reaches consumers without delay, nutrient loss, cost overruns, price manipulation, or unnecessary intermediaries. This, in turn, lays the groundwork for data-driven interventions aimed at meeting local needs and exploring export opportunities,” he pressed.
Local chief executives, agricultural leaders, and stakeholders across Bataan echoed Secretary Laurel’s sentiments, highlighting the profound impact of these projects on local farming communities.
Limay Mayor Nelson David expressed gratitude to the national government and partner agencies for their unwavering support, recognizing the transformative potential of these initiatives in enhancing farming practices and boosting local economies.
Innovations in agricultural technology and infrastructure
The inauguration of a state-of-the-art onion cold storage facility in Barangay Mabiga, Hermosa, funded by the High Value Crops Development Program, signals a paradigm shift towards modernized post-harvest management.
Hermosa Mayor Antonio Joseph Inton expressed gratitude to DA and pledged unwavering support for all their projects aimed at benefiting farmers.
He emphasized the importance of these initiatives in ensuring food security for all, expressing his commitment to working alongside the agency to guarantee that farmers have the necessary resources to continue providing food for our tables.
New Hermosa Farmers Association Chairperson Mark Felipe affirmed their dedication to leveraging this assistance for the betterment of farming practices, ensuring efficiency and quality in agricultural endeavors.
The unveiling of Anthony Villanueva Farm’s drip-fertigation system, endorsed by Secretary Laurel, epitomizes the adoption of science-based methodologies in Philippine agriculture. With a keen focus on innovation and efficiency, this modern farming approach heralds a new era of productivity and sustainability in the agricultural sector across Bataan.
Governor Jose Enrique Garcia reiterated the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to supporting agricultural development, emphasizing a holistic approach encompassing mechanization, technology adoption, and infrastructure enhancement.
“Congratulations to our farmers, and thank you, Secretary Laurel, and the entire DA family, for your steadfast support for the province of Bataan,” Garcia expressed, echoing sentiments of gratitude and determination.
In alignment with the vision for agricultural advancement in the province, DA remains steadfast in its mission to modernize Philippine agriculture, foster innovation, and uplift the lives of millions of farmers and fisherfolk nationwide.
Through collaborative partnerships, visionary leadership, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, the path towards food security and prosperity in Bataan is illuminated with promise and possibility. (CLJD/RPQ-PIA 3)