PhilFIDA Regional Office XI (RO XI) joined the efforts to aid farmers affected by the Abaca crisis, in which the Provincial Local Government of Davao del Norte, led by Acting Governor De Carlo “Oyo” Uy and spearheaded by the Provincial Agriculture Office, organized a mass distribution event on July 3, 2024, at Sto. Niño Gym, Talaingod. Engr. Irma Rodis, OIC-Regional Director of PhilFIDA RO XI, attended the event alongside Zenarosa A. Andresio, Acting Planning Personnel, Nomer Bangcayaon Jr., PFO of Talaingod, and Aris Endaya, Fiber Inspector. Their presence underscored the importance of this intervention for the Talaingod community and highlighted their support for the affected farmers.

The event aimed to provide essential resources such as rice, abaca seedlings, and fertilizers to farmers impacted by the previous year’s Abaca crisis. Notably, 1,000 sacks of rice, fertilizers, and 11,000 abaca seedlings were distributed to farmers in the barangays of Sto. Niño, Dagohoy, and Palma Gil. These seedlings, intended to replace the “daratex” MSP with genuine abaca, are crucial for ensuring a sustainable future for these farmers. The Provincial Government of Davao del Norte has allocated P5 million pesos this year for purchasing abaca seedlings and fertilizers, along with conducting livelihood training programs, with an additional P14 million pesos allocated for continued support in the coming years.

Governor Uy assured farmers of ongoing support from the provincial government during the recovery period while their abaca plants mature. Engr. Irma R. Rodis delivered an inspirational message, expressing gratitude to the provincial government for their efforts in eradicating daratex and reviving the abaca areas. She encouraged farmers to diligently care for the provided seedlings and fertilizers to ensure future productivity. This initiative marks a significant step in restoring Talaingod’s agricultural productivity, with the transition from daratex to true abaca expected to yield positive outcomes for the community through continued support and collaborative efforts from government agencies.

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