Campus Journlism

April - June 2017
Vol. 26 No. 2
DA honors farmers in festival

Ligao City bags
P1 million in
SAN AGUSTIN, PILI, grounds here on May 15-16, Irrigators Associations, National Rice
Achievers
CAMARINES SUR – In 2017. Organic Farmers Associations
celebration of the annual A total of 45 exhibitors from the provinces of Masbate,
Farmers and Fisherfolk’s month
this May, the Department of
brought in their agricultural
and handicraft products
Sorsogon, Albay, Camarines
Norte and Camarines Sur. search
Agriculture Agribusiness and which garnered a total sales Organic farmers associations The Local Government
Marketing Assistance Division of P546,392.00. Most of the include the GAPPA, TAPFPAT, Unit of Ligao City in Albay
(AMAD) spearheaded a two- exhibitors came from the CAANDUYOG, Pecuaria won in the outstanding city/
day Farmers’ Festival or Agri Provincial, Municipal and Development Coop; and the municipality category in the
Trade Fair at the DA Bicol Barangay Food Terminals, (Please turn to page 11) 2016 National Rice Achievers
Search and received P1 million
cash prize and trophy. Senator
Cynthia Villar, chairperson
of the senate committee on
agriculture led the awarding
ceremony held at the Philippine
International Convention
Center (PICC) on May 23,
2017.
The DA gave away
over P52 million in cash
prizes to seven provinces,
15 municipalities and cities,
four Irrigators Associations
(IAs), and three Small
Water Impounding System
Associations (SWISAs).
OIC City Agriculturist
Dexter A. Mendoza received
the award. Mayor Patricia Alsua
was represented by Ligao City
(Please turn to page 10)
National Convergence Initiative

recognizes RCI-Bicol for its
convergence area dev’t plan
in Castilla, Sorsogon
DA Bicol Regional Executive Director
VIGAN CITY, ILOCOS Elena B. delos Santos received the
SUR---The National Convergence plaque of recognition for the Bicol
Initiative for Sustainable Rural Regional Convergence Initiative for
Development (NCI-SRD) the completion of the convergence
recognized the efforts and support area development plan of Pili
of the Departments of Agriculture-5 Watershed in Castilla, Sorsogon.
(DA); Agrarian Reform-5 (DAR); Director delos Santos received the
Environment and Natural Resources plaque from DAR Secretary Rafael
(DENR); and Interior and Local V. Mariano and DA Undersecretary
for Special Concerns and Chair
Government-5 (DILG) in the
of NCI-SRD Alternate National
(Please turn to page 7) Steering Committee Atty. Ranibai D.
Dilangalen.
EDITORIAL
Rice sufficiency by 2020

may no longer be an elusive dream
The Department of Agriculture
has promoted rice hybridization
sometime in the early --- . But just
when it was gaining ground , the
government all of sudden decided
to go slow on hybridization and
concentrated more on certified
seeds. Thus, the much hyped target
of attaining rice-self sufficiency for
the country in 2014 was not realized.
Side by side with rice The DA has now been awarding
Today, the DA is again hybridization program the DA will farm equipment and post-harvest
campaigning for the intensified now implement a credit window facilities that will enable the farmers
use of hybrid rice to achieve its goal called Production Loan easy Access reduce their production and post-
of attaining rice self-sufficiency (PLEA) Program designed to address harvest facilities. Secretary Pinol
by 2020. Agriculture Secretary the financial needs of marginal and promised farmers that the DA will
Manny F. Pinol himself is leading the small farmers for a fast, convenient not be distributing equipment which
promotion of rice hybridization as and affordable credit. It has also are not functional and which are not
one of the four strategies to attain launched the Survival and Recovery needed.
the sufficiency goal. The three other (SURE) Assistance Program for
strategies are: farmer’s access calamity-stricken farmers and With the farmers industry,
to credit or loans; access to right fishers. This is a non-collateral, zero resiliency, innovativeness and
marketing and provision of post interest loan payable in three years. receptiveness to improved
harvest facilities. technologies and good agricultural
To give farmers or producers practices plus the government’s
Already, the DA has forged access to market, the DA is now sustained and unwavering
partnership with private companies organizing rice farmers into-highly determination to promote
and launched a rice derby contest functioning organizations and hybridization and deliver the
among seed companies to determine assisting them in setting-up farmer- goods, services and interventions
which variety produces more yield owned outlets in key areas. This align with this the goal of achieving
per hectare. These seed companies is to reduce multiple layers in the rice self-sufficiency by 2010 will no
will also assist in technology transfer. market system. longer be an elusive dream.
Published quarterly by the Regional

Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division
of the Department of Agriculture, Regional
Field Unit No. 5, San Agustin, Pili, Camarines
Sur, Tel No.(054) 477-5113 Fax 477-0381
Editor-in-Chief: Emilia B. Bordado E-mail Address: darafid5@yahoo.com
Advisers:
Writers: Lovella P. Guarin Re-entered as a Second Class Mail Matter at
Dr. Elena B. Delos Santos Jayson M. Gonzales the Pili Post Office, Pili, Camarines Sur under
Regional Executive Director Blesilda A. Nuñez Permit No. 2017-18 on March 17, 2017.
Annielyn L. Baleza
Dr. Edgar R. Madrid Michelle Angela G. Alfigura
Regional Technical Director
for Research and Regulations Lay-out Artist: Lovella P. Guarin Circulation: Blesilda A. Nuñez
Photographer/Liason Officer: Lita V. Estrella
Mr. Rodel P. Tornilla Eduardo D. Collantes, Jr. Emil Pasumbal
OIC Regional Technical Director Illustrators: Hermito Antonio T. Privaldos Salvacion Gonowon
for Operations and Extension Ramon C. Adversario Records Unit
2 UMAsenso April - June 2017

Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP)
PRDP turns over 20 non-motorized fiberglass boats
to calamity-affected fishefolk in Sorsogon
SORSOGON CITY -- Colorful buntings During the Turn-
and festive music signal that it is no Over Ceremony
ordinary day in Sitio Purakay, Brgy. of Fiberglass Non-
Pamurayan, Sorsogon City on May 15, motorized Boats,
2017. Amid scorching summer heat, PRDP Project Support
residents flock the shores of Sorsogon Office South Luzon
Bay and look over the horizon. After three Director Shandy
hours of breathless waiting, everyone was Hubilla announced that
filled with cheers as 20 red and blue non- the 20 non-motorized
motorized fiberglass boats parade the sea. fiberglass boats are
Among the crowd, two men moved initial deliveries out of
closer to the seashore, clapping their the 50 non-motorized
hands in amazement—Roberto Salgado, fiberglass boats that the
president of the Samahang Mangingisda Project will provide to
ng Tomalaytay (SMT) and Mariano fisherfolk in Sorsogon. SMT and SAMAGI ng aming barangay. Itong project na ito ay
Saldy Jesoro, president of the Samahang are two of the five proponent groups talaga namang makakatulong na maiangat
Mangingisda ng Gimaloto (SAMAGI). venturing in seaweed production that will ang kabuhayan ng mga seaweed farmers ng
Salgado and Jesoro are the recipients of receive 10 non-motorized fiberglass boats Tomalaytay. Sa pamamagitan nito maliban
the fiberglass boats from the Philippine each. sa dati naming mga bangka, meron na
Rural Development Project’s (PRDP) “Pagkatapos ng Typhoon Nona medyo kaming additional na sampu na magagamit
microenterprise subprojects for calamity- naghirap at bumaba ang income ng mga namin para sa pagpapalawak ng aming mga
stricken areas in Bicol. seaweed farmers at ng mga mangingisda taniman. Ang mga bangkang ito ay mas
matibay kumpara sa aming mga ginagamit
at magiging kaaagapay ng bawat farmer
June 15, 2017 sa paggabay sa kanilang hanap-buhay sa
Dr. Elena B. delos Santos

Letters pang-araw-araw na pangangailangan”
said Roberto A. Salgado, president of the
Regional Executive Director Samahang Mangingisda ng Tomalaytay
Department of Agriculture RFO 5 (SMT) in Castilla, Sorsogon.
Meanwhile, Mariano Saldy L. Jesoro,
Dear Madam: president of the Samahang Mangingisda
ng Gimaloto (SAMAGI) recalled how
In God’s grace! fisherfolk and seaweed farmer-members of
I would like to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated April 19, 2017, in his cooperative struggled to plant, maintain
regard to my request for assistance from DA. As directed I went to your office last and harvest their seaweeds after Typhoon
June 6 and was cordially assisted by Ms. Angie Belleza for the requested female Nona wrecked their boats.
carabao. To date, I am just waiting for its delivery. “Naghihirap yung mga mangingisda.
As to the hybrid palay seeds I was graciously attended by Maam Elenita Jane Nung wala pa ang PRDP, halos naglalakad
Ramos, and sir Fermin for the Bigante seeds which I brought home the day to lang sila. Pag high tide hindi makapaglinis
Daet. Regarding the 100 pcs pili seedlings, I was gladly assisted by Engr Frias, ng maayos sa gulamanan dahil malalim
Maam Naning and Kuya Dodong of RIARC in Calasgasan. ang tubig. Yung ibang mga miyembro
I am scheduled to pick them up by last week of June 2017, together with the umuupa sila nang mahal halimbawa P25
14 bas of vermicast which I was able to obtain thru the assistance and goodwill ang bangka kada isang araw” he said.
of Engr. Oliven Oco and his very courteous and helpful personel. With the 10 non-motorized fiberglass
All in all, my experience in dealing with your personnel at these DA offices boats, Jesoro saw a glimmer of hope for
has been a memorable one, truly inspiring and encouraging. It humbled me and the fisherfolk members of SAMAGI.
restored my faith and deep respect and admiration of our government personnel. “Sa ngayon mas lalong mapapaganda
Nakakataba po ng puso ang inyong paglingap, pagtulong at pagmamalasakit sa namin ang tubo ng seaweeds dahil meron
aming mga ordinaryong mamamayan at magbubukid. na kaming mga bangka na maaari naming
God bless you po at Mabuhay! gamitin anumang oras,” Jesoro added.
About 74 members of SAMAGI and
Lubos na gumagalang at nagpapasalamat, 71 members of SMT will benefit from the
non-motorized boats which they can use in
(Signed) IRENEO N. PAPRIGON carrying planting materials as well as in the
Celestino Enverga Street, Daet, Cam.Norte daily maintenance and monitoring of their
seaweed culture. PRDP will also provide
Cc: Sec. Manny Piñol, Engr. Frias, Engr. Oco
(Turn to page 7)
April - June 2017 UMAsenso 3

LEGASPI CITY - The 3-year
foreign -assisted STANDZ
Foreign assisted STANDZ- by (Emily B. Bordado)
project to control and eliminate

rabies in the Philippines in
rabies project ends but government have manifested
continued support to the
particular the Bicol region
officially ended on June 21
in simple ceremonies in a
efforts to be sustained project.
Dr. Rubina Cresencio,
public’s understanding . Dr. Lopez also lauded the former BAI director under
hotel here attended by the whose term the STANDZ
Under the technical component efforts and commitment of the
implementers, partner agencies project was implemented said
the project has greatly Bicol team especially, Dr. Rona
and other stakeholders . that the STANDZ project
influenced the understanding Bernales, the Regional Project
Launched on September 1, followed disease control model
of the LGUs towards Coordinator for the big success
2014 the project under the name used to eliminate the Foot-and-
implementing the Rabies of the project.
“Stop Transboundary Animal Mouth Disease (FMD) which
program with the adoption of Dr. Ronello Abilla, who
Diseases and Zoonoses” or also affected the swine industry
the strategies adopted by the represented the OIE Sub-
STANDZ was initiated by in several regions of the country.
project. For the organizational Regional Office in Southeast
the World Organization for Dr. Cresencio who is now a
component the project Asia said that significant strides
Animal Health or OIE in consultant of OIE explained
facilitated and encouraged have been made with the
partnership with the Australian
government as donor and
the Philippine government
through the Bureau of Animal
Industry and the Department
of Agriculture RFO 5 as the
implementing agencies. Its
primary objective is to control
and ultimately eliminate dog
rabies cases in the Philippines
through massive vaccination
, advocacy and information
campaign on Responsible Pet
Ownership and strengthening
Dr. Rubina Cresencio, former
inter-sectoral collaboration Dr. Ronello Abilla, representative Department of Health
BAI director
among implementers, partner of the OIE Sub-Regional Office Assistant Director
in Southeast Asia Dr. Ernie Vera
institutions and LGUs.
Dr. Emerlinda Lopez, the creation of Barangay and implementation of the project that Bicol was chosen as the
National Rabies Project Municipal Rabies Prevention but they will still be reviewing pilot region because of the high
Coordinator presented the and Control Committees and the accomplishments and their incidence before of rabies cases
highlights of accomplishment protocol and flowchart of impact . These will be the basis in the region and because of
of the Project based on the four practical inter-sectoral linking for the declaration by the OIE its strategic location being the
frameworks under the ASEAN have been finalized and initially if an area or country is rabies gateway from Luzon to Visayas
Rabies Elimination Strategies rolled out. free. He explained that an and Mindanao and vice-versa.
which are : Socio-cultural, For the political area declared as rabies free DA Bicol Regional
Technical, Organizational and component, the project was has a big impact on its tourism Executive Director, Dr. Elena
Political (STOP). Under the able to attain an increase in industry and Bicol which has a de los Santos in her message
Socio-Cultural component, local chief executive’s (LCEs) thriving tourism industry will read by Luz Marcelino, chief
STANDZ was able to produce support to the rabies program stand to benefit from a rabies – of the Research Division
baseline data through a through manpower and free declaration. He added that acknowledged the efforts
Knowledge, Attitude and financial support. Moreover, although there is no assurance and contributions of the
Practice (KAP) survey which ordinances were made to of future support from donor implementers, partners and
served as guideline on the guide and direct LGUs on the countries the national and local (Next page pls.)
responsibilities of each sector.

Farmers Summit caps end of Bicol
Agri Water Project
To cap the completion of the 5 year implementation of
the Bicol Agri-Water Project (BAWP), a Farmers’ Summit was
conducted last July 14, 2017 held at the Macagang Business
Center in Nabua Camarines Sur. It was attended by 462
project beneficiaries and Climate Field School graduates; 56
representatives from project partners agencies, institutions and
universities.
stakeholders especially the This project entitled: Water Security under Climate
Also present during the
LGUs. She said that aside from Risks: A Philippine Climate Change Adaptation Strategy for
event were researchers from
attaining a high percentage Agriculture Sector or simply BAWP is funded by the United
the University of Warwick
of dog vaccination, what is State Agency for International Development (USAID) and is
in UK: Michael Tildes Ley
also an important indicator a collaborative undertaking of government agencies, academic
and Kristyna Rysava who
of the success of the project and research institutions and selected LGUs. These include
presented the results of Rabies
is the heightened LGU and the University of the Philippines Los Baños Foundation
Mathematical Modeling in
community engagement and Incorporated (UPLBFI), Department of Agriculture Regional
Bicol region. Dr. Daphne L.
involvement in the project Office 5 (DA RFO 5), the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical
Jorca of the BAI also presented
as evidenced in the creation and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA),
the results of post vaccination
of Barangay and Municipal the International Research Institute - Columbia University
monitoring in the Bicol region.
Rabies Prevention and Control (IRI-CU), the Central Bicol State University (CBSUA), and
Mayor Patricia Gonzales
Committees. the Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry
of Ligao City also graced
In behalf of the governor, (BUCAF), LGU of Buhi, Polangui and Nabua.
the occasion along with the
provincial board member The primary objective of the project is to enhance the
provincial, city and municipal
and chair of the agriculture resiliency of farmers and local decision makers to adapt to
veterinarians, agricultural
committee Howard Imperial climate variability and change. It envisioned to showcase
technologists and municipal
presented the initiatives climate adaptation strategies within the farming communities
agriculturists some of whom
and efforts of the provincial and promote improved watershed management strategies
gave their testimonies and
government in addressing within the Buhi-Barit Watershed Reservation of Buhi,
shared their experiences in the
the rabies problem. He gave Camarines Sur and Quinale A Watershed of Polangui, Albay,
project implementation and
assurance of the PLGU’s and to minimize the effects of climate risks on lowland rice
vowed to sustain their efforts
continuous support to the farming communities of Nabua, Camarines Sur.
even after the projects has
efforts of eliminating rabies. The event featured exhibit of the One Town One Products
already been terminated. Each
Department of Health Assistant (OTOP) of the three project partner LGUs namely, Buhi and
participating municipality
Director Dr. Ernie Vera deplores Nabua in Camarines Sur and Polangui in Albay. It provided
were awarded certificates
that rabies has been around for market matching and promoted local products. It also
of appreciation and one unit
years and could not be totally showcased good agri-practices and climate resilient strategies
megaphone and customized
eliminated. With the gains of the respective LGUs.
jacket as a token of appreciation
made by the STANDZ project One of the highlights of the event is the turnover ceremony
for their participation in the
he urged everyone to work of the Climate-Smart Farmers’ Field School – A Facilitator’s
project.
together to sustain the efforts Manual for Lowland Irrigated Agro-Ecological Zone and
that have done even without the for Upland Agro-Ecological Zone. The said manuals were
external funding support. developed under the auspices of the Bicol Agri-Water Project,
in collaboration with partner agencies and universities.
The interventions discussed in the manuals came from
available recommended interventions coupled with local
experiences and practices designed and produced as guide for
instruction. This would help the trained Agricultural Extension
Workers (AEWs) to provide a comprehensive, enhanced
agriculture and climate information and interpretations for
farmers’ guidance in their farming activities. The use of this
manual is a big step towards BAWP’s goal of empowering
agriculture stakeholders to be climate-resilient.
The Department of Agriculture, Regional Field Office
5 (DARFO5) distributed agri-inputs, each farmer received
1 bag certified palay seeds, 1 bag fertilizer, 2 fruit bearing
seedlings and backyard vegetable seeds. Registered farmer
association in the three (3) project municipalities also received
University of Warwick researchers
Michael Tildes Ley and Kristyna (Turn to page 8)
Rysava.

2017 National Convergence Initiative Summit held
VIGAN, Ilocos Sur-- DAR Secretary Rafael
- Over 400 government and V. Mariano suggested that
non-government organizations “we should create economic
delegates and graduates of the opportunities that is
Master in Public Management environmentally sustainable
major in Rural Development and answer the needs of the
(MPM-RD) listened to inspiring Filipinos especially the rural
messages and success stories of folks.”
hope, rural transformation, and DENR USec for Policy
unity during the 2017 National Planning and International
Convergence Initiative for Affairs Atty. Jonas R. Leones
Sustainable Rural Development reported that they were able to
(NCI-SRD) Summit held on plant more forest trees with less
June 20, 2017 at the Vigan areas. The 1,400 trees/hectare
Convention Center here target of their agency which
with the theme “Sustaining was attainable will benefit not
Convergence Towards Rural only the present but the future
Development.” generations to come.
industry. (represented by Dilangalen),
Held every two years DILG Usec for Local
If tourism is coupled with DAR, DENR (represented by
since its launching in 1999, the Government Austere A.
agri-extension, this will propel Leones) and DILG (represented
summit presented an overview Panadero said that their
the improvement of farming by Panadero) signed joint
of the NCI-SRD to President agency is targeting a decrease
communities and will provide resolutions on the Designation
Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s of 40% poverty incidence
additional income to them. of the MPM-RD Scholarship
administration and showcased by 2022 through aggressive
She also bared her plans to Program graduates as members
success stories of convergence implementation of programs
urge the Technical Education of the national and regional
sites at different stages of on health, education, and
and Skills Development Technical Working Groups of
implementation highlights of employment.
Authority to allocate P500 the NCI-SRD; Recommending
key effective strategies and According to Senator
Million Pesos a year as for the Endorsement of the
major challenges encountered. Cynthia A. Villar, the major
scholarship fund for farmers to Consolidated Budget for the
Overwhelmed with the challenges the Philippines is
study in farm schools. She will Ligawasan Marsh for Fiscal
number of attendees during facing right now are income
the summit, Vigan City Mayor poverty, poverty in rural areas,
Juan Carlo S. Medina said that weakness in employment
such event showed the “impact generation, quality of jobs,
of convergence and a show of
strong and united government failure to fully develop rural
agencies participation for rural areas, increasing poor families
development.” in urban areas, and lack of
DA Undersecretary for access to market areas.
Special Concerns and Chair of “Kailangan nating iahon sa
NCI-SRD Alternate National kahirapan ang mga mahihirap
Steering Committee Atty. the soonest possible time,” she
Ranibai D. Dilangalen disclosed said.
that according to the Philippine Villar is pushing for the try to legislate this plan this Year 2017 under the General
Statistics Authority (PSA), the approval of Republic Act No. year. Appropriations Act(GAA)
country is faced with a 21.9% 10816 or the Farm Tourism “In France, there are and Requesting the National
poverty incidence of which Act wherein the farm becomes thousands of family farm Steering Committee to Source
60% of this are experiences by a learning site, a tourist spot, schools, what more here in Out Funds of Proposed Plans
farmers and fisherfolks in the a market, and a farm school. the Philippines which is an and Projects Outside of GAA,
rural areas. Farm Tourism is a sunshine agricultural country,” she and one Convergence Area
related. per region. The Department of
She also promised that she Tourism (DOT) represented
will continue to propose laws by Usec for Farm Tourism,
for farmers and fisherfolks like Faith-based Tourism, and
free agricultural insurance and Eco-Tourism Dr. Vince Q.
review the farm mechanization Tejada also signed the NCI-
legislation and the Agri-Agra SRD-DOT Memorandum of
law. Agreement which will include
There were four major the DOT in the four major
highlights of the summit---(1) agencies of NCI; (2) the
the secretaries of DA (Next page pls)

Search for Best Convergence convergence strategies which
Site of 2018 was launched successfully improved the lives National Convergence Initiative ... (from page 1)
to recognize successful of the residents.
convergence initiatives in Moreover, the RCIs of completion of the Convergence initiative. She cited the case
Javier, Leyte; Piddig, Ilocos the Bicol Region, the Ilocos Area Development Plan of Siayan-Sindangan-Roxas
Norte; Siayan-Sindangan- Region (Region 1); Cagayan (CADP) of Pili Watershed which has a 20% decrease
Roxas; Central Antique, and Valley (Region II); Region VII in Castilla, Sorsogon during from their poverty incidence
Isabela as well as the seven (Central Visayas); Region VIII the 2017 Summit on June 20, of 90% because of the support
RCIs with Convergence Area (Eastern Visayas); Region IX 2017 at the Vigan Convention of DA, DAR, DENR, DILG,
Development Plan; (3) the (Zamboanga Peninsula); and Center, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. Departments of Social Welfare
Institutionalization of District- Region X (Northern Mindanao) DA-5 Regional Executive and Development (DSWD),
Wide Agro-industrialization, because of their Convergence Director Elena B. De los and Education (DepEd).
Innovation, and Tourism Area Development Plan were Santos received the plaque She also cited the
(IDAIT) as Convergence Area also awarded. of recognition from DA ease and convenience in
was also launched; and (4) DA-Philippine Crop Undersecretary for Special mobility of people through
exhibit of success stories of Insurance Corporation Concerns and Chair of NCI- transportation development;
convergence sites, testimonies representative Manuel J. SRD Alternate National the 100% electrification of the
of stakeholders and programs Cortina presented the learnings Steering Committee Atty. municipality; and the increase
underscoring the ridge-to- generated from the success Ranibai D. Dilangalen, DAR in rice production of farmers in
reef approach at Hall B of the stories of the five LGUS Secretary Rafael V. Mariano, Javier, Leyte.
convention center. during the one-day event which DENR USec for Policy In the case of Piddig, Ilocos
Since the DOT will be include operationalization Planning and International Norte, the convergence strategy
part of NCI-SRD starting this of functional committees; Affairs Atty. Jonas R. Leones, of increasing the areas for
year, Tejada presented the synchronized plans and and DILG Usec for Local organic coffee production
three market needs of tourism- programs of stakeholders in Government Austere A. jumpstarted the generation
--travelers for adventure and the convergence areas; strong Panadero. of 10,000 jobs and enticed a
nature; religious/pilgrimage/ community support; conduct Aside from the Bicol lot of business investors. At
missionary; and farm tourism. of agri-business investment Region, other regions that present, the LGU has more
With tourism, “rural economies forum; inter-agency and were recognized by the NCI than1,600 hectares planted
will gain strength,” he said. stakeholders cooperation and which include the Ilocos with coffee. Dilangalen also
During the summit, commitment to implement Region (Region 1); Cagayan posed a challenge to the
the LGUs of Piddig, Ilocos deliverables. Valley (Region II); Region Mindanaons present during
Norte; Javier, Leyte; Bureau of Soil and Water VII (Central Visayas); Region the summit. Since Mindanao
Siayan-Sindangan-Roxas in Management OIC-Director VIII (Eastern Visayas); Region is the food basket of the
Zamboanga del Norte; Central and National NCI Focal Person IX (Zamboanga Peninsula); Philippines--“we have to create
Antique; and the province of Angel C. Enriquez lauded the and Region X (Northern and provide opportunities to
Isabela were given awards summit as the most successful Mindanao). alleviate poverty, hunger and
because of their successful in terms of attendance and NCI also awarded the LGUs unemployment; and empower
implementation of local accomplishments. (Jayson M. of Piddig, Ilocos Norte; Javier, the youth so that they will not
Gonzales) Leyte; Siayan-Sindangan- be lured into twisted ideology
Roxas in Zamboanga del as they are our future leaders.”
Norte; Central Antique; and Dilangalen also requested
PRDP turns over ... (from page 1)
the province of Isabela for the the DA as the lead convenor of
successful implementation of NCI to immediately convene
one motorized fiberglass boat and the PRDP for the support local convergence strategies all stakeholders. LGUs and
to each proponent group for the extended to the province. which improved the lives of the leaders to also convene
delivery of raw dried seaweeds He reiterated the Sorsogon residents. especially the Provincial
to target markets. government’s thrust to Dilangalen stressed the Convergence Initiative (PCI)
SAMAGI projects an develop the agri-fishery sector impact of the convergence and the municipal convergence
increase of P4,821.22 average as he observed that many initiative (MCI). “I believe that
income in four cropping of farmers and fisherfolk in the rural areas, once developed,
seaweeds from its previous province belong to the poor vegetables and root crops and would address the societal
average on-farm and off-farm and vulnerable sector. He also damaged houses and boats ills of poverty and drugs and
income prior to Typhoon discussed Sorsogon’s potentials in communities located near even the perennial road traffic
Nona worth P1,600. On the in pili, abaca and silkworm the coastal zones. PRDP has problem in Manila,” she said.
other hand, SMT is eyeing production and called for approved 10 microenterprise This year’s theme is
an increase of P4,842.49 or unity in promoting sustainable subprojects with a total “Sustaining convergence
equivalent to 223 percent raise development and environment amount of P10.74 million towards rural development”
from their previous monthly conservation among the for calamity stricken areas in and was participated in by
income amounting to P1,500. stakeholders. the province to help affected more than 400 government
Governor Robert Lee Sorsogon was hardly hit communities recoup from their and private representatives.
Rodrigueza of Sorsogon by Typhoon Nona in December losses and eventually, increase (Jayson M. Gonzales)
expressed his gratitude to the 2015 which devastated their income. (Annielyn
Department of Agriculture about P2 million-worth of L. Baleza)

Bicol Agri-water ... (from page 5)
4 threshers for Buhi Camarines Sur, 1 hand

tractor for Nabua, 1 corn sheller and 1 hand
tractor with trailer for Polangui, Albay. 196
heads of Mallard ducks were also given to
each LGU for dispersal to the 14 project
barangays.
In behalf of the Agricultural Training
Institute Director, Dr. Luz Taposok, Mr.
Vicente Dayanghirang Jr., Assistant
Division Head, Policy and Planning Mr. Timothy Marlowe, Dr. Agnes C. Rola, Mr. Rodel Tornilla, OIC-Regional
Division, delivered Dr. Taposok’s message Acting Chief, USAID Project Director of Bicol Technical Director for Operations
and grateful appreciation to the BAWP’s Executive Office Agri-Water Project and & Extensions, Department of
USAID Philippines Professor of the University Agriculture Regional Field Office
funding agency, project implementers and giving his message of the Philippines Los 5, expressing his gratitude to the
partners. He said that “One key response to BAWP partner Baňos, giving the closing USAID for funding the project as
to the threat of climate is improving the agencies and farmer remarks during the
well as to the project partners for
management of irrigation water through beneficiaries. BAWP’s Farmers’ Summit.
the collaborative efforts to make
the conduct of this Bicol Agri-Water this project a success.
Project. We are aware that water is one of
the most valuable resources in sustaining said that“the output of this project will be
agricultural production and climate change integrated to our regular activities starting Dr. Cely S. Binoya, Co-Principal
have resulted to inequitable distribution next year, particularly the extension Investigator and Gender Specialist of
and inadequate supply of irrigation water, activities that were developed such as the BAWP presented the Climate Field School-
affecting rice production and sharing of farmers field school of the rice program A Facilitator’s Manual for Lowland while
water resources in the watersheds here which would be converted to a Climate Dr. Antonio Payonga, Dean, Graduate
in Camarines Sur and Albay. Climate Smart Farmers Field School. DA 5 will use School, Bicol University and Co-Principal
change will definitely alter the agricultural the modules that were developed during Investigator and Upland Specialist of
productivity and it summons us to also the duration of the project. In addition, BAWP presented the manual for upland.
change and keep up with it. Being in the the DARFO5 will adapt the Climate Dr. Agnes C. Rola, BAWP Project
agriculture sector, we are at the forefront Extension Advisory (CLEA) developed Director expressed her appreciation to
in the country’s quest to end poverty and through this project and integrate it to our partner agencies for their cooperation. She
attain sustainable development. We are regular extension activities to expand the said that “In behalf of UPLBFI, in behalf of
sustaining the lives of our countrymen coverage of this to more barangays and our partners, in behalf of USAID, I would
and we must act now if we do not want to municipalities” like thank you all, especially to the farmers
crumble or be swept away by the next flood Mr. Timothy Marlowe, Acting Chief, who became part of this project. The
that comes. It is up to us to build a world United States Agency for International assistance will just not the end here, cause
we want for ourselves and for our children Development Executive Office, USAID through the MAOs, through the Climate
to remember. And this project which Philippines expressed his appreciation to Field Schools, through the ordinances of
infuses climate resilient technologies and the different partner agencies, institutions our LGUSs, though, Seasonal Climate
adaptation strategies are “public goods” and universities. He said that “the project’s Extension and Advisory, hopefully we will
that our principal clienteles – the farmers, achievements would not have been possible continue what we had started and learn
will forever be a part of their mainstreaming without the significant contribution of together.”
activities in the farms.” its partners, especially to the confidence Panel discussions with the experts
In behalf of the Department of in the leadership of the Department of and representatives from different partner
Agriculture Regional Field Office 5 and Agriculture Regional Field Office 5, agencies and institutions together with
Regional Director Dr. Elena B. De Los through Regional Director Dr. Elena De CFS graduates and beneficiaries was also
Santos, Mr. Rodel Tornilla, OIC-Regional Los Santos, to sustain the initiatives of conducted to primarily answers the queries
Technical Director for Operation & the project within the region. The U.S. and understand the initiative of every
Extension, expressed his gratitude to the Government looks forward to a continuing partners institutions to sustain the BAWP’s
USAID for funding the project as well as partnership to improve the resilience of initiative.
to the project partners for the collaborative Filipino communities to natural disasters
efforts to make this project a success. He and achieve long-term food security.”

DA inaugurates two new
office buildings in Masbate
MASBATE – The Department particularly the island provinces
of Agriculture regional office of Masbate and Catanduanes
top officials trooped to this emanated from her predecessor
province on June 29, 2017 for the former DA Bicol Regional
inauguration of the two newly Executive Director Abelardo and individual small ruminant MasbatePCIP)
rehabilitated office buildings R. Bragas. During the term raisers. Currently, Masbate has Lorenzo Alvina,
that comprise the research of director Bragas, the DA more than 70 goat raisers and Superintendent of the
outreach station in the province allocated some funds for 130 cattle ranchers. Masbate Center for Livestock
now known as Masbate Center the rehabilitation of the six Masbate Provincial Development hopes that with
for Livestock Development. research stations of the DA after Administrator Filemon Abelita the strong support of the
The Masbate Breeding Station typhoon Yolanda devastated III said the improvement of the LGU and the farmers, the big
located in barangay Asid in the whole Bicol region. The DA facilities in the province potential of Masbate will be
Masbate City and the Regional P5 million worth two-storey is a big step towards the harnessed.
Carabao Breeding Center
realization of its Also present during
located in barangay Mabato-
aim to improve the inauguration were Jonel
bato, Mandaon, Masbate, 44
the livestock Orteza, Masbate Provincial
kilometers away from Masbate
industry. “We Agriculturist; Nora Aribon,
City are the department’s
are mindful of multi-awarded chairperson of
implementing arms in Masbate.
the big impact of the Provincial Agricultural and
The Masbate Breeding
the department Fishery Council of Masbate;
Station is a 22.8 hectare
of agriculture City Councilor Andrei Diez
livestock facility focusing on
in Masbate as who represented Mayor
production of superior breeds of
it is primarily Rowena Tuazon; Joaquin
small ruminants such as goats
an agricultural Dequilla, MAFC Chairperson
and sheep. Meanwhile, the
area. We are of Milagros; Adonis dela Cruz
187 hectares Regional Carabao
very thankful representative of the Masbate
Breeding Center produces
Rice and Corn Seed Growers
that DA has given the attention Association; Edgar Magallanes,
Masbate rightfully deserves,” representative of Masbate Small
Abelita added. He also said that Ruminant Raisers Association;
there is no other way but up DEBESMSCAT Vice President
for Masbate as it aggressively for Administration and Finance
pursues farm tourism. Dr. Efren Cajurao; Hermilo
Masbate has a total land Azansa, former station
area of 4,151.78 sq kms. superintendent.
roughly 23% of the Bicol DA Bicol RTD for
region. It is considered as Research and Regulations
livestock champion of the Edgar R. Madrid; OIC RTD
region as it is a source of live for Operations and Extension
animals like goat, cattle and Rodel P. Tornilla; division
carabaos. Coconut, rice, corn, chiefs and DA region 5 staff
cassava and mango are its main were also present during the
agricultural products. (Source: occasion. (Lovella P. Guarin)
http://drive.daprdp.net/iplan/
genetically superior breeds of administration building both in

buffaloes, and serves as source Masbate Breeding and Regional
of planting materials of forage Carabao Breeding Center are
grasses for the province’s equipped with training halls and
numerous cattle ranches, offices which are structurally
making it the rodeo capital of sound, modernized, and climate
the country. At present, the resilient – in line with the DA’s
center has over 200 buffaloes. thrusts and vision.
DA Bicol Regional Director delos Santos also
Executive Director Elena B. mentioned of a possibility
delos Santos said the idea of to establish a diagnostic
improving structures of DA laboratory for livestock to cater
stations in all the provinces to the needs of cattle ranchers

aggressively promoting farm
mechanization and providing
the necessary farm equipment
and postharvest facilities such
as tractors, flatbed dryers,
chippers, to ensure that quality
cassava chips are processed and
production losses are avoided
or reduced. He cited the many
Bicol cassava farmers and industry

players to revitalize the industry
TINANGIS, PILI, new undertaking after retiring he underscored the need to industrial and commercial
CAMARINES SUR - “May from government service. He reorganize a new cassava board uses of cassava aside from
Pera sa Cassava”, this was invited other farmers to bring as industry issues and concerns being a major raw material
the assurance made by the their cassava to him and expand emanates from the ground. The for animal feeds. A field
representatives of the San their production area as there is board can elevate these to the demonstration of some cassava
Miguel Foods, Inc . (SFMI) a great demand for this crop. RAFC who in turn can relay equipment being provided by
and Agribusiness Development Alfredo Rillo, the them to to the top – the policy the DA was later conducted
Group as well as the cassava designated Farmer-Regional makers. by the Regional Agricultural
farmers and assemblers who Executive Director (RED) of The SFMI representatives Engineering Division and the
gave testimonies during the the Department of Agriculture headed by Raymond Joseph farm machinery companies.
Cassava harvest festival and for the month of May, also Britanico, Area Operation head As a culminating activity,
market forum held in this graced the occasion to for Luzon, and Ben Brasales, the attendees organized
barangay recently. represent DA RED Dr. Elena area coordinator for South and elected the officers of
Over 100 farmers from B. de los Santos. He expressed Luzon assured the farmers that the Cassava Commodity
Camarines Sur, Masbate, hope that this time around the under their new scheme farmers Board namely: Felimon
Albay, and Camarines Norte cassava farmers would not be will be given the necessary B.Montenegro, president; Jerry
attended the event held at the put at a disadvantage. Rillo, a assistance from securing the M. Mercado, vice president; Lea
F.B. Montenegro Farm owned former regional manager of the quality planting materials, M. Beltran; secretary; Mutya
by retired fiscal, Felimon B. Phillippine Coonut Authority production, harvesting and Roqueza M. Montenegro,
Montenegro who is now an cited the unpleasant experience up to the processing and alternate secretary; Thereza
SFMI assembler. Montenegro of cassava farmers before who assembling of the chips to Z. Oliver Treasurer; Dan
who originally owned and entered into contract growing ensure that what are produced D. Ribas, auditor; Teresa
manages about 5 hectares of with private companies but conformed with the quality D. Panuelos PIO; Mike
cassava plantation bares that as incurred losses when their standards set by their company. B. Coribilion and Ramon
assembler he has now aggregate produce were rejected or He urged farmers to work with Gaudiel, business managers.
area of about 31 hectares bought at much reduced them to revitalize the cassava Also elected as members of the
which include those owned price. As also the current industry in the region. board are: Luis D. Belarmino
by farmers from neighboring chairperson of the Regional Meanwhile, newly and Adonis F. de la Cruz, both
municipalities and provinces Agriculture and Fishery designated DA- OIC Regional of Masbate; Nickson Mallorca
who are now supplying him Council, a private sector-led Technical Director for of Albay; Epinia P. Sandoval
cassava chips. He shared his policy and monitoring body Operations, Rodel Tornilla of Camarines Sur and Ruel
experiences and insights in his for the agriculture sector, said that the agency is de Jesus of Camarines Sur.
(Emily B. Bordado)
Ligao City won P1 million... (from page 1)
Vice Mayor Sherwin Quising Also present were DA security and increased farmers’ Agricultural Extension Workers
during the awarding. Bicol Regional Executive income. Ligao City has 143% (AEWs) and five Local Farmer
They were accompanied Director Elena B. de los Santos; rice self-sufficiency and 2.5% Technician (LFTs) from the
on the stage by Usec. Segfredo ATI Bicol OIC Center Director contribution to the regional rice Bicol Region.
R. Serrano, DA Undersecretary Vivien Carable and DA Bicol production. It recorded a 2.5% Director de los Santos
for Policy and Planning; OIC Regional Technical increase or 31,548 metric tons said that a separate awarding
Usec. Ranibai Dilangalen, DA Director Rodel P. Tornilla. in rice production from 2015 to by cluster is slated in August.
Undersecretary for Special The City of Ligao was 2016. The increase in yield was (Lovella Guarin)
Concerns; Agricultural Training awarded in recognition of its 5% for irrigated areas and 2%
Institute (ATI) national director important contributions in in rainfed areas.
Luz A. Taposok; and Usec. sustaining and increasing rice Also included in
Ariel Cayanan, Undersecretary production in the country which the roster of National Rice
for Operations. is vital in the attainment of food Achievers Awardees were 32

DA honors farmers
... (from page 1)
Pensumil Sugar Planters

Association and other
entrepreneurs. The DA-funded
Agripinoy Trading Center
based in Vinzons, Camarines
Norte also displayed its
products. JL Trading displayed
its combine harvester while
rice seed companies such as SL
Agritech and FMC exhibited
their best hybrid rice varieties
while GRJC displayed its agro
industrial machineries.
“More farmers and
associations participated this
year compared to last year,”
said Adelina A. Losa, chief of
the AMAD.
Dr. Elena B. de los Santos,
DA Bicol Regional Executive
Director said the farmers
festival has already been
institutionalized as one of the
major activities of the DA to
showcase tradeable products,
foster market linkages, and
gain broader perspective and
insights on how to further
improve the farmers products
to help them increase their
income.
One avid participant of
the Farmers Festival was
Jose Yaneza. He proudly
showed his gray hair as silent
testimony of his seven years of age does not matter for a farmer versatile and can adapt to any during the opening program
participation in the tiangge at like him, as he danced with the sitation. “Pag pinabayle mo, were Albay Provincial
DA, when Director Ellen asked veteran singer Eva Barrameda mabayle. Wika nga, kalabaw Agriculturist Cheryl Rebeta;
the audience who is the oldest of Sorsogon during her lively lang ang tumatanda.” Camarines Sur Civil Service
among participants. He is the rendition of “Rolling” in the Products displayed during Provincial Director Jocelyn
caretaker of their Barangay opening program. Damian, the festival include fruits Marifosque; DA Bicol Regional
Food Terminal in Talobatib, president of Guibasan Irrigators and vegetables, root crops, Technical Director (RTD) for
Labo, Camarines Norte, being Association in Camarines seedlings of budded and grafted Research and Regulations
the Barangay Agricultural and Norte has 212 members tilling plants. Edgar R. Madrid and OIC
Fishery Council chairperson 471 hectares of rice areas in The farmers were also RTD for Operations Rodel P.
and chairperson of Municipal five barangays of Labo. treated with give aways such Tornilla. (Lovella P. Guarin)
Farming and Fishery Council Alfredo R. Rillo, RAFC as planting materials
of Labo. Bicol Chairperson designated and seeds during
A new exhibitor was the as Farmer Director of DA the two day fair. A
Kabihug Crafts. Owned by Bicol for the month of May training on vegetable
Glenn Jimenez, the Kabihug underscored the resiliency of the processing was
Crafts sells handcrafted jars and farmers. He said the festival is conducted by the
bags made from nito. The raw a thanksgiving for the bountiful DA Food Laboratory
materials are being supplied by harvest received by the farmers at the Regional
the Kabihug indigenous tribe in despite the calamities such as Te c h n o l o g y
Labo, Camarines Norte. the typhoon Nina in December. Commercialization
Meanwhile, another farmer, The festival also shows the Center (RTCC).
Damian Lagdaan, proved that other side of a farmer who is Also present

HML: Preserving and Promoting
Bicol’s best, authentic and
traditional delicacies
By Emily B. Bordado
T
here is a saying that “when a door
closes a new one opens.” The story
of the family of Heriberto and Annie
Llaguno in barangay Ilawod, in Daraga, Albay
is an example of this truism. Their family used
to engage in abaca handicraft making and
processing but when the industry suffered a
slumped they have to close their enterprise.
But knowing that their workers together
with their families depend on them for their
livelihood, the Llaguno couple thought of
ways so they can provide employment to their
loyal but displaced workers.
coconuts all of which they get from local
They then decided to venture into farmers in nearby towns of Camalig,
restaurant business where they can employ Guinobatan, Legazpi City, Tabaco in Albay
their former workers and at the same time and Nabua in Camarines Sur provinces.
earn income for the family. Thus, the Pares In 2014; Katrine Louise the 24-
King and Pares Queen restaurants were year old daughter of the family who
established in Tabugon, Camarines Norte tucked a degree in business management
and in Legaspi City respectively under from a prestigious school in Manila was
the name HML Foods which was derived designated to take over the helm as
from the initials of the Llaguno patriarch. operations head of the family enterprise.
Mostly Bicolano dishes were served in Her experience and stint in a private
their restaurants and customers loved enterprise engaged in packed cookies and
these dishes and would often order for biscuits proved very useful. It was her idea
take home. Balikbayan friends would also that their products should adopt the brand
order to be brought back to their respective name “Bicol’s Best.”.
countries. To live up to its brand name, the HML
Thus, the idea of cooking or processing sought the assistance of the Department
and bottling these favorite Bicol dishes for of Science and technology (DOST) to
a much longer shelf life was considered enhance the product quality, extend the
by the Llaguno family. In 2012, with an shelf life and improve the production
initial capital of only P5,000 and some capacity through automation of some of
borrowed utensils the family produced the processes. With a loan amount of
weekly 25 bottles of bicol express pork two million pesos (P2M), DOST provided
and spicy laing (taro leaves cooked in them with vegetable slicer, boiler, filling
coconut milk). They became instant hit machine, and kettle. The shelf life of each
and were briskly sold. New variants and product has been extended to one year
products were added the following year: using the DOST’s commercial sterilization
the Bicol express tinapa, laing regular and method. Each bottle is also assigned with
the Bicol chili paste. number codes for easy monitoring and
With their newly acquired 2.7 hectare tracing of any defect in their product.
rolling and hilltop farm planted with The caps used for the products they get
coconut in a nearby barangay Gabawan, from the Philippine Export Zone Authority
the family decided to establish the Farm is made from materials which pop if there
Plate Nature Corporation (FPNC) under are breaks in the glass bottles.
the supervision of son, Nico. The farm The HML products have obtained
was planted with sili haba, sili labuyo, Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practice
and gabi which are some of the primary after passing the rigid requirements by
materials for their bottled food products. the Food and Drug Authority in the
Every month HML needs 3,500 kgs of Bicol region. These products have zero
sili haba; 1,200 kgs sili labuyo, 1,3000 kgs Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) and no
fresh gabi leaves and unlimited quantity preservatives. Recently, they passed the
of dried gabi leaves and 50,000 matured (Next page pls.)

Food Facility registration of the (sapal) and coconut shell for
United States Food and Drug coco charcoal. They also sell
Administration. The Low Acid their used plastic and cans to
Canned Food Registration junkshop. This is also how
which is equivalent to the they manage or dispose of their
Philippines’ Certificate waste.
of Product Registration is Their participation
currently on process. and exposure to local and
Meanwhile, the international fair gave them
Department of Agriculture in new ideas and better practices.
Bicol through its Agribusiness But they believe in the
and Marketing Assistance inherent ingenuity, industry
Division (AMAD) has been and productivity of the local
helping in their product farmers. Thus they have
promotion. They were given adopted the business mantra
opportunities to participate SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS, youthful and cheerful face is hosted by Ruben Gonzaga.
in trade fairs, international BUY LOCAL and LOVE immortalized on the tarps and HML has shown that our
expositions, and investment LOCAL. billboards. On the other hand traditional and authentic
fora. Likewise the Department They not only support Katrine with her refreshing local delicacies such as
of Trade and Industry has the local farmers, they also and pretty face as the laing, bicol express, and chili
helped them in improving their take good care of their very spokesperson of the company paste are the Bicol’s best
packaging and the Department own staff and workers. Their is the one giving all the TV products with great potential
of Tourism has also been 20 regular employees are all and radio interviews. She is not only in the local but also
assisting them in promoting covered with PhilHealth, either a participant or resource in the international market.
their products during tourism Pag-Ibig and SSS. And as an person to fairs and exhibits, Theirs is a home grown
events. incentive for the loyal service investment fora and seminars business enterprise that best
of their personnel who have locally and international. demonstrates the Bicolano’s
been with them for over 12 The company has also resiliency, innovativeness,
years they are provided with made its presence felt by being resourcefulness and ingenuity.
a Medicard and some perks a major sponsor in regional
like vacation with their family tourism, social and sporting
in any part of the country or events such as the October
abroad. Swell fest in Gubat, Sorsogon,
The Llaguno family Caritas Margin, Green Babes,
believes that satisfied and Mt. Mayon Triathlon and
happy employees will be more Ibalong Car Show.
productive and committed as No wonder their products
they will not consider their are now being patronized by
work a drudgery and will popular celebrities and well
thus contribute more to the known personalities like
success of their company. former Senator Manny Villar,
They also keep an open and Kris Aquino, and Amy Perez.
regular communication with Their company and products
their workers through constant have been featured in TV
meeting, dialogues and programs such as Umagang
capacity enhancing activities kay Ganda, Island Living,
and socialization. Graceful Living with Cory
Because of these the They have made an Quirino, ANC News, RX Plus
HML Food Enterprise is not aggressive media promotion of ABS CBN Sports and Action
only expanding but gaining of their product thru tarps and recently the Agri tayo Dito
financially. In 2015, its gross and billboards conspicuously
sales was over P8.2M. The and strategically positioned
following year this almost along main highways, public
doubled to P15.7 attaining a places and tourist stop overs
staggering 97% growth sales practically all over Bicol and
and a net worth of P5.4M. even in Metro Manila. Their
In addition to these products are displayed in more
income HML also generate an than 50 establishments and
aggregate monthly income of malls all over the country.
of over P26,000 from coconut The LLaguno siblings
by products such as rejected Nico and Katrine are doing
coconut which are used for also great job as endorsers of
copra , grated coconut waste their own products. Nico’s

Rebecca Purisima -
IP chieftain is Bicol’s
2017 outstanding rural
woman by Lovella P. Guarin
R
ebecca Sanchez Purisima, more popularly
known as “Vicky” is a Bicolana chieftain
of the Agta Tabangnon since 2002. Agta
Tabangnon is an Indigenous People’s (IP) tribe
composed of 110 families and is registered with
the National Commission on Indigenous People
(NCIP) as Tinawagan Tribal Component.
For 15 long years of
service as chieftain of her tribe, long-cherished ambition to be a October 28, 2016. Another one
Vicky has been a steadfast lawyer for her tribe. Alas, fate hectare is planted with corn,
defender of the rights of the led her to a different course and pinakbet vegetables and herbs
Indigenous People, refuge of she got married and moved to and spices which have passed
the oppressed, and a passionate the town of Tigaon. Although Good Agricultural Practices
other fruits at the organic
educator and mentor for she was not able to fulfill her (GAP) certification on October
store of The Agri-Planters and
her tribal members. She is dream to be a bonafide lawyer, 2016.
Food Processors Association
also a multi-awarded farmer she still lives most her life as a Considered as one of
of Tigaon (TAPFPAT). The
cooperator and a seasoned strong defender of her people the best agro-tourism sites in
TAPFPAT is the 2016 winning
resource speaker often like her mother who is also Tigaon and accredited learning
farmers’ group in the search for
tapped by the Department of a tribal chieftain in Turague, site of the ATI, the VK’s farm
National Outstanding Organic
Agriculture (DA) municipal, Sangay, Camarines Sur. accommodated a total of 1,400
Agriculture Achievers Awards.
provincial and regional offices, Vicky is happily married visitors for the past four years.
It is composed of 52 members
Agricultural Training Institute to Bayani. Through long years There is no entrance fee, and
14 of whom are organic farmers
(ATI), and Department of in farming they were able to the visitors are treated to free
and Vicky is a very active
Agrarian Reform (DAR) in construct a concrete house at healthful organic drinks and
member since 2013.
various seminars for farmers. barangay Tinawagan. snacks. But on their way out,
Organic agriculture is now
As she grew up in a farming Vicky’s farm is popularly there is an exit fee of P20.00.
very popular in Tigaon and
family of six children, in a known in the locality as VK’s Vicky also get a substantial
nearby municipalities that the
house made of woven coconut Organic and GAP certified income from herbs and spices.
demand for organic produce is
leaves, she saw the plight of farm. Located at the foot of Mt. She learned the art of growing
rising even at prices higher by
her tribal group who are often Isarog, the two (2) hectare fertile and processing of herbal plants
20% than that of non-organic
deprived of basic services in land they obtained through and kitchen spices from one
produce. To ensure a steady
the community and always the Comprehensive Agrarian of the numerous trainings
supply of organic products and
at a disadvantage in many Reform Program (CARP), is conducted by the DA Bicol
cope with the huge demand,
things such as in division of planted with diverse crops. in support to Gender and
Vicky divided the IP organic
landholdings. Through farming One hectare is planted with rice Development (GAD) Program
farmers into 4 clusters, each
her father was able to send her and fruit bearing trees which in the past. Vicky is one of the
focusing on different organic
to college where she took up are certified as organic by the most successful adopters of
crops such as upo, sitao,
and finish Bachelor of Arts in Organic Certification Center the technologies being widely
ampalaya, sili and upland rice.
Political Science to follow her of the Philippine (OCCP) on imparted by GAD program led
Each cluster has a farmer leader
by its focal person Aloha Gigi
who sees to it that the production
The ATI accredited learning center Bañaria to empower a greater
of priority commodity is
number of rural women in
sustained alongside with the
Bicol. From these trainings, she
cash crops. Her efforts have
was able to come up with her
been complemented by the
own processed products such
Community Based Participatory
as malunggay polvoron, peanut
Action Research (CPAR) of the
brittle, pickles, cocojam, and
DA Bicol Research Division.
sili-suka. She also learned the
Vicky served as cooperator of
craft of flower arrangement
the seed enhancement program
which gives her a huge income
and buffer seed stocking of
on some occasions.
DA. Thus, in 2015 she has
She also sells organic
rice, citrus, dragon fruit and (Next page pls.)

been awarded by the Bureau of Integrated Diversified Organic sits in the Municipal Planning
Agricultural Research (BAR) Farming System (IDOFS) being and Development Council of
as Natatanging CPAR Farmer introduced by the ATI. She Tigaon as representative of
Cooperator. prepares her own concoctions the Vegetable Growers, one
Vicky has learned new of fish amino acids, FPJ, FFJ, among the four Civil Society
technologies in organic farming Bokashi and vermi tea. She Organizations given the seat in
by attending various trainings plants insect resistant varieties the MPDC. During the national
and participating in local of OPV corn and other crops. evaluation of Tigaon in relation
and national trade fairs and In her community, she to their application for the Seal
annual regional and national is known as champion of of Good Governance, she was
organic congresses. The VK’s women empowerment having chosen as the lone representative
farm has also been supplying served as barangay councilor of the four CSOs. One of her
herbs and seedlings to the DA for four terms. She is also tangible accomplishments as examination set by the NCIP.
which are being distributed to designated by the Department CSO representative was her Norwel Cronico is one of
the participants of trainings of Justice provincial office as motion to request funds for the the IP scholars who recently
and seminars and other Parole and Probation Officer vegetable farmer groups. finished Bachelor of Science
beneficiaries. Aide since 2003 covering the She is the president of the in Education. During his
Her farm speaks of her qualifying exams, only nine
creativity. From the impressive applicants were chosen out of
farm lay out, to the array of 380 examinees, and he was one
products the tourists can take of them.
home with them. The entrance To date, Vicky has
going to the learning site and endorsed a total of nine (9) IP
nursery is lined with golden scholars who were enrolled in
sunflowers and sweet scented tertiary schools in Camarines
citronella on both sides. A Sur and Albay. Seven of them
tourist’s visit would not be have already graduated in
complete without snapping a college. Vicky also endorsed
selfie at the great view with the five IP graduates to pass the
mysterious Mt. Isarog as the height requirement in the
backdrop. Vicky shows her improvised sticky insect trap Philippine National Police and
She hires three (3) made from bio-adhesive spray. Bureau of Fire Protection.
permanent IP laborers whom She has her share of life’s
she pays P200 daily. But towns of Bula, San Jose and Vegetable Growers Association ups and downs. When her
their group can also carry on Garchitorena, all in Camarines of ARB of barangay Libod and eldest daughter died at a young
with their farm works even Sur. Tinawagan since 2014 and Vice age of 19 in year 2012, she was
without capital as they practice Vicky is also the president President of Cacao Growers severely depressed causing her
“Hurunglunan” where all of the Rural Improvement Club Association of Tigaon. She and to suffer a stroke in 2012 which
members will work on each of Tinawagan composed of 43 her husband are also members paralyzed half of her body. But
members’ farm without a fee. members. She once served as of the Couples for Christ. She her mission in her community
Her feats in agriculture Local Farmer Technician (LFT) is also a very active member drove her to bounce back to
precede her and she has in 2012-2014 and covered two of the Tigaon Municipal life, and continue with her
been awarded as Sustainable barangays although she is not Agricultural and Fishery farming and noble mission.
Agricultural System (SAS) an agriculture graduate. Council. In 2016 she was given Another hurdle she
model by the DAR in She was once an a Gawad Parangal award by endured was the recent typhoon
Camarines Sur. With the help of Enumerator of the NCIP in LGU Tigaon. Nina that hit the municipality in
the LGU of Tigaon, her request the National Statistics Office As chieftain, she endorses December 2016 which wiped
for a three-month Farmers Field census serving as interpreter the scholarship application out most of her crops, the ATI
School in vegetable for 30 IPs and advocate of census in the of aspiring IPs to the NCIP. IDOFS learning center, and
was granted by DAR. After seven IP barangays of Tigaon as She also orients the applicants some structures in her farm.
the FFS, 23 farmers adopted the IPs do not want to interact on various subjects so that Yet amidst these hardships,
the technologies and put up with the enumerators from the they will pass the qualifying her passion in helping improve
their own farms, and nine (9) agency. the lives of her people,
of them have already obtained Even at present, the contribute to food security in
the Organic Certification from tribal members course their her community and save the
the OCCP. All these nine transactions outside the tribe environment through organic
organic farmers are women to her first. Such as resolution farming, remains burning.
IPs. The other farmers have of marital conflicts, that the Indeed, Vicky is an embodiment
already applied for the organic discords do not reach barangay of a truly empowered Bicolana
certification. courts. She is also currently aboriginal, an absolute proof
She shifted to organic appointed as Para Legal by that agriculture, which is the
farming as she is also an the Department of Agrarian industry of today and the
advocate of environment Reform to help settle land future, is full of amazing and
conservation. She follows an disputes among IPs. Vicky also purposeful individuals.

DA summer youth
internship culminates
SAN AGUSTIN, PILI, real graduates someday. Edgar
CAMARINES SUR - The Madrid, RTD for Research &
Summer Youth Internship Regulations presented a brief
Program (SYIP) sponsored by video showing the values
the Department of Agriculture of Hard-work rated as 98%,
Bicol culminated with a simple Knowledge 96%, Love 54%,
graduation ceremony held at Attitude 100% and Love of
the DA conference room on God 101% giving emphasis
May 18, 2017. With Hawaiian on Attitude and Love of God
theme and a tag line “Aloha which are important tools in
Auina (a-oeeyaa) La”, these honing ones personality. “It is
youths prepared a short program our attitude towards work that
showcasing their talents and makes our life 100% “ he said.
shared what they have learned The interns expressed
in the 22 days journey as public their gratitude to the DA for
servants. giving them the best experience
A total of 30 students from as young adults. They had a
various schools were given taste of what the real world is.
opportunity to experience Teamwork and respect are the
DA 5 middle supervisors attend

government service. They were values they will bring along
assigned to different divisions as they return to their classes
Supervisory Development Course

where they were given clerical in June this year. They were
or technical tasks depending on accompanied by the division
their background and interest. chiefs or representatives (where
NAGA CITY – Human resource produce best performers and “Dreaming to be graduates they were assigned ) as they
is the most important resource measurable output. is not impossible” Rosario received their certificates.
in any organization. Thus, Sales also said that DA Sales, DA Admin and Finance Aside from their exposure
the DA invests in maintaining Bicol regional executive Chief said in her message. She to government culture, the
competent personnel equipped director Elena B. de los thanked the youths for being interns will take home a net
with technical expertise and Santos has already approved a part of the agency’s work force compensation of P9,980.
knowledge to carry out the number of trainings not only and wished them luck to be (Blesilda A. Nuñez)
agency’s gigantic task as food for the supervisors but also
provider. for all the levels in the rank
In tandem with the Civil and file personnel to upgrade
Service Commission (CSC), public service delivery with
the DA Human Resource international standards.
Management Section (HRMS) The training program
spearheaded the 4-day consisted of three modules
Supervisory Development which are aimed to equip the
Course (SDC) Tracks 2 and 3 in participants with advanced
one of the hotels here on June supervisory skills, knowledge
19-22, 2017. This was attended on the levels of competency
by some 25 2nd level or middle in the workplace and human
supervisors of the department. resource management towards
Marilou D. Bordon, chief of the organization integrity and
HRMS said that the participants excellence.
have previously attended the Experts from the Civil of Employee Empowerment. Rodel P. Tornilla thanked the
Track 1 of said course. Service Commission served Meanwhile, Dr. Ma. CSC and the DA - HRMS for
Rosario C. Sales, chief of as facilitators. Dir. Jocelyn Lourdes Salud discussed the spearheading such activity.
the Administrative and Finance Marifosque, Director II of topics: Making Presentations; Being a new supervisor
Division in her welcome Camarines Sur CSC field office Handling Audiences with himself, Tornilla asserted that
remarks said that supervisory discussed topics on Power, Problems; Handling the Q the hardest hurdle in being
training programs are crucial Leadership and Management and A Period; Workshops/ a supervisor is the transition
in an organization. Supervisor and Employee Development Exercises on Presentation; period from being a regular
skills need to be honed to Principles and Processes. Making Meetings Productive; staff to becoming the leader of
produce and to maintain Dr. Rosalini Moneda, and Planning and Leading a unit or division. Indeed, the
quality employees. Capability Director II of Camarines Norte Meetings. SDC course is a very big help to
building is also important CSC field office discussed In closing, DA Bicol OIC new supervisors in their ascent
for future leaders as without Coaching, Counseling and Regional Technical Director to higher positions. (Lovella
it, the organization cannot Mentoring; Faces and Process for Operations and Extension P. Guarin)

PWDs in rural areas
train on meat processing
CADLAN PILI CAMARINES hands on the actual
SUR. the Department preparation of
of Agriculture Bicol in various meat
partnership with the Provincial recipes such as
Government of Camarines Sur skinless longanisa, the agency focuses not only on
conducted a 2 day Basic and siomai, tocino, meat farmers but also other sectors.
Advance Meat Processing & loaf, embotido, “Mawot ta na umuswag sa
Preservation Training at the chicken nuggets gabos na sector” (we aim to be
Convention Center, Capitol and other chicken progressive in all sectors), he
ground, this municipality on dishes. Meat and quipped.
May 10-11, 2017. Ingredients were Darlyn Orido, participant
Spearheaded by the provided by the from Milaor Camarines Sur
Research Division in DA Regional shared that she had suffered
coordination with the Animal Technology various forms of discrimination.
Products Development Center Commercialization This has not stopped her to
(ACDC) of the Bureau of Center (RTCC) headed by willingness to compete. That avail of livelihood trainings.
Animal Industry, said activity Arlene de Asis, Science despite their condition, they She thanked the DA and the
aimed to provide technical Research Specialist II who also willingly showed up and ready Provincial Government for
assistance and improve their served as resource person and themselves to excel in their initiating livelihood projects
livelihood particularly to trainer during the activity. chosen field. She encouraged and trainings. She now looked
persons with disability (PWD) Luz Marcelino, chief them to engage in other projects forward to be empowered
in the rural areas. of Research Division, in her such as corn cob craft making and competitive. “Gusto ko
Some 137 participants message, said that no matter for additional income since patunayan na maski may
from San Fernando, Canaman, how simple is the undertaking, the materials needed are not kapansanan, kaya ko guibuhun
Milaor, Ocampo, Pili and it is important to take it by expensive. Brochures on Meat an naguiguibo kan normal na
Bombon Camarines Sur, heart, commitment and passion. Processing and related reading tao” (She wanted to prove that
actively took part in the She said that these people with materials were also distributed she can do what other normal
lecture, discussion with audio impairment are very special to the participants. individuals do)
visual presentation and actual in our society and should be Meanwhile, Rodel Tornilla The cooked products were
cooking demonstration. given special treatment and who represented DA Regional later distributed for free taste.
Out of 137 participants, 68 recognition. Executive Director Ellen de The Provincial government
of them were persons with Further, Emily Bordado los Santos, explained that the gave away packages containing
disability. They were given chief of DA RAFIS, lauded DA is one with the LGUs in 3 kilos rice and grocery items
the opportunity to try their the participants for their supporting PWDs. He said that to each PWD participant.
(Blesilda A. Nuñez)
Bicol food processors train on product
packaging and labeling
The Department of Agriculture Bicol behaviours giving details
through the Agribusiness and Marketing on the techniques and
Division conducted a one day Seminar- examples.
Workshop on Product Packaging and During the lecture,
Labelling on May 25, 2017 at the DA Reyles explained the
library. Participated by some 25 food many uses of High
processors/entrepreneurs mostly organic Density Polyethylene
practitioners from Albay, Masbate , (HDPE) which is well
Sorsogon and Camarines Norte, the
suited in packaging products with a short During the workshop, the participants
activity aimed to instil the importance of
shelf life such as milk, Low Density were provided set of packaging materials
using appropriate packaging and labelling
Polyethylene (LDPE) which is excellent to identify what type is used for a certain
. Aside from this, new techniques were
resistance to acids, bases and vegetable product. Each group was also given a
introduced to enhance competitiveness.
oils, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) resistant product to protect and promote, determine
Resource person was Melany Reyles from
to grease, oil and chemical , Polystyrene appropriate packaging and later come up
Twin Pearls Advertising Services who
Polypropylene (PP) used as containers for with a brand name and label. Labelling and
discussed the different types of Packaging
yoghurt, margarine, takeout food, etc. The Packaging are important marketing tools in
Materials and the Standard Label
participants were also given insights on promoting products as they also project
Requirements. She explained the value of
the basics of branding and the mandatory the company’s impression and interest.
branding, consumer profile and purchasing
labelling requirements. (Blesilda A. Nuñez)

DA 5Sportsfest 2017
& Santacruzan
18 18 UMAsenso
UMAsenso OctoberApril - June 2017
- December 2015
DA joins 5th regional
biodiversity challenge
The Department of Agriculture Bicol through
its employees’ association (DAEA Bicol Chapter)
joined DENR’s 5th Regional Biodiversity Challenge
held in Legazpi City on June 9, 2017.
The winners received P20,000 cash award
-first prize, P15,000 cash award - 2nd prize and
P10,000 cash award - 3rd prize. The DA team
received certificates.
The DA team were among the 32 teams
from the different government agencies and
LGUs that competed in the timed race which
started at Sumlang Lake in Camalig, Albay
and ended at Embarcadero de Legazpi.
The DA Team was composed

of Raymond Adversario (left),
Teodorico Ramos (center) and
Grace Sinahonon (right).
The race included fishing,
swimming, running, biking,
and tree planting.
The event was in celebration
of Environment Month. (photos

by Mitoy Privaldos)

Farmer Director assumes DA post a big agency which is highly
decentralized. He thanked
for the whole month of May the DA for recognizing and
supporting the AFCs and for
SAN AGUSTIN, PILI assumed his new designation the opportunity to be at its
CAMARINES SUR–As on May 2 after the flag raising helm even for just 27 working
one of the highlights of the ceremonies where he was days. He said before accepting
Farmers’ and Fishermen’s introduced by RED Elena B. de the post he sought God’s
month celebration this May, los Santos to the DA officials guidance and blessing and
a Farmer Director has been and personnel. Director de negotiated with Him that he be
designated by agriculture los Santos explained that the granted three wishes: that while
Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol in designation of a farmer director serving as the DA director, the
every DA regional field Office. is a token of recognition and employees and those under his
The incumbent chairperson aims to further strengthen the the Regional Agriculture and watch be healthy, cooperative
of the Regional Agriculture Department of Agriculture’s Fishery Council (RAFC), a and happy.
and Fishery Council or RAFC partnership with the private-led organization which Based on the implementing
(RAFC) is automatically Agricultural Fishery Councils has been working with the guidelines issued by Secretary
designated to assume the roles or AFCs, a consultative body DA in identifying issues and Piñol, the authority of the
and tasks of the DA Regional composed of agri-fishery sector concerns of the agri-fishery farmer-director shall be limited
Executive Director (RED) representatives. sector and has been helping in to non-policy determining
in the implementation and Rillo, former regional the monitoring of agri programs activities which should not in
dissemination of key programs director of the Philippine and projects. any way affect the government
of the agency. Coconut Authority and now He said that he feels accounting rules and
In the Bicol Region, Alfredo an upland farmer. He has been overwhelmed by the task ahead procedures as well as the civil
R. Rillo, RAFC chairperson an active volunteer leader and considering that unlike his rules and regulations governing
officially accepted and currently the chairperson of former office, the DA is such regular government employees.
(Emily B. Bordado)
Farmer Director Rillo Ends Term and Renders Report
He recommends that DA monitoring of the DA programs
Farmer Regional Executive PCAF monitoring team which
Bicol must sustain its efforts and likewise will continue to
Director (RED) designate, conducted a project monitoring
as a transparent and committed support AFC’s activities.
Alfredo Rillo who served as the of various projects being
institution and must continue Also present during the exit
Department of Agriculture’s implemented in the region
to value the participation of the conference of Mr. Rillo were:
RED for the whole month while he was serving his term
private sector. Regional Technical Director,
of May ended his term by as acting RED. Likewise. He
DA regional executive Dr. Edgar R. Madrid, RAFC
rendering a report to the DA commended the DA Bicol
director Dr. Elena delos Santos, Secretary Peter Theodore Caro,
regional officials and his fellow team for having the highest
thanked Rillo for accepting the RAFC executive officer and DA
officers of the Agriculture and in the number of Value Chain
job and the challenge of being chief planning officer Aloha
Fishery Councils in a simple Analysis completed among the
at the helm of the agency at Gigi Bañaria, the provincial
ceremony. region in South Luzon.
least for a month. She said that AFC coordinators : Alfredo
He said that the DA While serving his term
the experience has probably Oben of Albay; Edgar Canet
personnel staff whom he had as RED he has presided over
shown Mr. Rillo how gigantic of Camarines Sur; Virginia
the chance to work and interact the management committee
the tasks and responsibilities Oanzon of Sorsogon; AFC
with during his short stint at the meeting of the DA regional
are in running the DA. She sector representatives and DAD
DA regional office and some of officials which included the
assured Mr. Rillo that the DA division/section chiefs. (Emily
its provincial outreach stations division chiefs, program
will continue engaging the B. Bordado)
were generally courteous and coordinators, section chiefs and
polite. He also observed that focal persons of various special AFC’s participation in the
there were no idle personnel projects. He has also been planning, implementation and
and that the officers and officials representing the DA as guest
were focused and performing of honor in various regional,
the jobs they are supposed provincial, city and municipal
to do. In his visit to some of agri-fishery fairs, farmers fora
the ROS in the provinces he and consultations and other
said that the facilities and agri-related events. Department of Agriculture
the on-going projects being While he looks forward Regional Field Unit No. 5
implemented by these are to returning to his normal life Reg’l Agriculture and Fisheries
presentable. But he noted that and usual routine as a fulltime Information Section
some facilities, machineries farmer he said he will cherish e-mail: darafid5 @ yahoo.com
RE-ENTERED
and production areas need the experience. “Di ko sukat AS SECOND CLASS
repair and improvement. akalain na after nine years MAIL MATTER
Rillo also commended after I retired from government at Pili, Post Office,
the DA Bicol regional Office service I have this chance to be Pili, Cam. Sur
for receiving an over-all at the helm of the DA which visit our website: under Permit No. 2017-18
rating of 8.5 to 9 points (in a is much bigger than the PCA bicol.da.gov.ph on March 17, 2017
scale of 10) from the national regional office I had supervised

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April - June 2017

DA honors farmers in festival

National Convergence Initiative

Rice sufficiency by 2020

Published quarterly by the Regional

2 UMAsenso April - June 2017

Dr. Elena B. delos Santos

April - June 2017 UMAsenso 3

project to control and eliminate

4 UMAsenso April - June 2017

April - June 2017 UMAsenso 5

6 UMAsenso April - June 2017

April - June 2017 UMAsenso 7

4 threshers for Buhi Camarines Sur, 1 hand

8 UMAsenso April - June 2017

genetically superior breeds of administration building both in

April - June 2017 UMAsenso 9

Bicol cassava farmers and industry

10 UMAsenso April - June 2017

Pensumil Sugar Planters

April - June 2017 UMAsenso 11

12 UMAsenso April - June 2017

April - June 2017 UMAsenso 13

14 UMAsenso April - June 2017

DA 5 middle supervisors attend

Supervisory Development Course

16 UMAsenso April - June 2017

April - June 2017 UMAsenso 17

The DA Team was composed

April - June 2017 UMAsenso 19

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