Empowering Baguio’s agricultural future: DA-CAR collaborates with city government in cum farmers consultation and turnover ceremony
In a significant gathering on October 4, 2023, Baguio City hosted the Coordination Meeting, Farmers Consultation, and Turnover Ceremony at the Baguio City Hall. This event represented a crucial milestone in pursuing the city’s agricultural development, driven by a shared commitment to ensure food security and the prosperity of urban farming communities in the region.
The primary objective of this event was to address pertinent issues and concerns related to the city’s agricultural development. During past consultations, Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized the city’s history of supporting local farmers. He acknowledged that administrative processes had sometimes caused delays but reaffirmed the city’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of its farming community. Mayor Magalong also highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the city and the Department of Agriculture (DA) to enhance marketing opportunities for local agricultural products.
The support extended beyond DA-CAR, with additional contributions from the City Local Government Unit and the Bureau of Plant Industry. These contributions included valuable assets like walking-type tractors and UV plastic sheets. Notably, DA-CAR allocated a substantial budget of ₱42.3 million to the city for Fiscal Year 2023, with plans for further assistance amounting to ₱15.5 million in Fiscal Year 2024.
Moreover, the event provided various organizations and bureaus a platform to present their programs and services tailored to urban farmers. Organizations, including the Agricultural Training Institute, Bureau of Plant Industry, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Bureau of Animal Industry, Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority, National Meat Inspection Service, National Dairy Authority, and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, showcased their commitment to bolstering Baguio’s agricultural community.
This event facilitated collaboration and encouraged knowledge sharing and the adoption of innovative technologies and best agricultural practices among Baguio’s farmers. It drew participation from key figures in DA-CAR, the City Veterinary and Agricultural Office (CVAO), and various other organizations, highlighting the united effort to empower Baguio’s agricultural future. – Roxy Bianca G. Paderes
