LEGAZPI CITY: In a move to bolster the agricultural sector, the Department of Agriculture-5 (Bicol) has announced the allocation of PHP4.2 million in aid for cacao and coconut farmers' cooperatives and associations (FCAs) in Camarines Sur. This funding is part of a broader initiative to enhance productivity and sustainability in the region's agriculture.
According to Philippines News Agency, the aid will benefit 16 coconut and cacao FCAs, encompassing over 100 farmer-members across 12 towns in the province. The assistance is distributed under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), which aims to increase income and productivity, promote education, alleviate poverty, and modernize the Philippine coconut industry.
Guarin elaborated that PHP2.25 million is earmarked for the rehabilitation and PHP1.95 million for the expansion of cacao plantations. The distribution of these interventions is scheduled for this month, with all resources ready for delivery. The project focuses on supporting smallholder coconut farmers and their families by intercropping cacao and coffee, thus enhancing employment and income opportunities. Additionally, it seeks to increase local sufficiency levels for coffee and cacao, develop community-based enterprises, and empower farmers to conserve and protect their livelihood-supporting natural resources.
The assistance package includes the provision of seedlings, organic fertilizer, and farming tools. Among the FCAs set to receive government aid are the Malabog Integrated Farmers Association of Caramoan, Del Vega Farmers Association Inc. of Baao, Baao Upland Farmers Association, Monte Calvario Smart Farmers Cooperative of Buhi, Aliar Coconut Farmers Agriculture Coop. of San Fernando, and the Calabanga Cacao Growers Association.
This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing the capabilities and resources of cacao and coconut farmers in Camarines Sur, promising a more prosperous and sustainable future for the local agricultural community.