By Nimfa Estrellado Pagbilao Mayor Angelica Portes-Tatlonghari speaks to cacao growers, DA, and PCA personnel during a cacao farming trainin...
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Pagbilao Mayor Angelica Portes-Tatlonghari speaks to cacao growers, DA, and PCA personnel during a cacao farming training in Barangay Ikirin, Pagbilao, on September 19, 2024. (Photo from Municipality of Pagbilao Quezon) |
PAGBILAO, Quezon - Pagbilao Mayor Angelica Portes-Tatlonghari has vowed to further support agriculture programs in the town, emphasizing the priority placed on farming. The mayor also stressed the importance of farming as a cornerstone of the local economy.
During her speech at the training on September 19, 2024, in Barangay Ikirin, Pagbilao, the mayor reaffirmed her commitment to promoting cacao products and ensuring fair income for the farmers. "I want to assure our farmers that I am fully dedicated to promoting their cacao products and ensuring they receive a fair income. This is not just about economic growth; it's about uplifting the lives of our people." she said.
She also highlights that her commitment extends beyond just words, "My commitment to our farmers extends beyond office hours. I constantly seek updates from my team on their needs and concerns. Rest assured, I will continue to be their advocate and champion their success. We will provide even more support and resources to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of our agricultural sector."
The training program centered on Cacao Rehabilitation under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act (CFIDP) conducted by the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) sought to revitalize the cacao industry and empower local farmers.
The comprehensive program equipped Pagbilao residents with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage and rehabilitate their cacao crops. It addressed critical areas such as identifying and mitigating various diseases and pests that commonly afflict cacao, as well as implementing sustainable agricultural practices to improve yields and crop health.
Mayor Tatlonghari also expressed gratitude to the DA personnel, cacao growers, and all involved in the training, emphasizing the collective effort required for the success of the cacao industry. She recognized the vital role of the Department of Agriculture High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) in empowering farmers.
"I extend my deepest gratitude to the Department of Agriculture High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) for their invaluable support in making this training a reality. Their dedication to empowering our farmers is truly commendable. The success of our cacao industry relies on the unwavering commitment of both our local government and our hardworking cacao growers. I am immensely grateful for their passion and resilience." she said.
This training aligns with the broader goals of the CFIDP, a national initiative launched in 2022 to revitalize the coconut industry and improve the livelihoods of coconut farmers. The CFIDP, enacted through Republic Act 11524, aims to increase income and productivity, promote poverty alleviation, and modernize the industry through various programs, including intercropping with high-value crops like cacao.
Participants engaged in hands-on training sessions, gaining practical experience in disease and pest control techniques, pruning, and other essential aspects of cacao rehabilitation. The training provided valuable insights into the CFITF, emphasizing the government's commitment to supporting the coconut and cacao sectors through strategic investments and development initiatives.
The Pagbilao MAO's collaboration with HVCDP and PCA underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in promoting agricultural development and ensuring the sustainability of vital industries in the region. By empowering local farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, the training program represents a significant step towards a more resilient and prosperous cacao sector in Pagbilao, contributing to the broader goals of the CFIDP.
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