The Department of Agriculture (DA) is marking the entire month of May as Fisherfolk Month, honoring farmers and fisherfolk for their vital role in ensuring the country’s food supply.
Engineer Buen Mondejar, regional executive director of (DA-6), said the celebration underscores the importance of the agriculture sector in sustaining both livelihoods and the broader economy.
To encourage more interest in agriculture, Mondejar said the agency plans to visit state universities and colleges across the region to conduct training sessions, particularly in departments offering agriculture-related programs.
“We want to show students that farming can be both viable and profitable,” he said.
Mondejar added that the Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council continues to play a key role year-round by holding regular meetings and coordinating closely with various government agencies.
The council also monitors the department’s budget to ensure that interventions reach intended beneficiaries while serving as a voice for farmers at both the regional and national levels.
Capacity-building initiatives are also ongoing in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Agriculture Training Institute to strengthen local agriculture and fishery councils.
Amid the continuing effects of El Niño, the DA-6 has intensified its mitigation efforts. These include enhanced advisory and monitoring services, as well as close coordination with local government units to guide farmers on optimal planting schedules and water management.
The agency is also working with the Bureau of Soil and Water Management for potential cloud seeding operations in selected areas to address water shortages.
To cushion the impact on production, DA-6 is distributing climate-resilient seeds, biofertilizers, and other forms of short-term assistance. It is likewise preparing rehabilitation and recovery programs, including rapid damage assessments and the use of quick response funds to assist affected farmers.
Mondejar urged farmers to follow advisories from Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and the agriculture department, particularly on planting schedules, and to secure crop insurance through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation.
He also called on the public to support locally produced goods to help sustain the agriculture sector during challenging conditions.IMT
