DA awards P57-M grant to Region 2 farmers

TUGUEGARAO CITY — The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 2 (DA-RFO2) awarded over P57.5 million in financial grants to 19 farmer cooperatives and associations (FCAs), and local government units (LGUs) under the Kadiwa Financial Grant Assistance Program.

The DA-RFO2 said that the assistance, through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), is to empower local farmers and boost agri-entrepreneurship.

It said the 19 beneficiaries, who show great promise in linking farmers directly to market opportunities, are set to expand their ventures and bring more locally made Filipino products closer to consumers.

AMAD chief Maria Rosario Paccarangan thanked the farmers for their hard work and dedication in uplifting local agribusiness.

"The true purpose behind their work is not simply for awards or recognition, but for the people they serve, Filipino farmers and fisherfolk, the youth and all other stakeholders who rely on their commitment and dedication," Paccarangan said.

She said a total of 34,914 farmers benefited from the P57.5-million grant given by the DA since 2023.

Kay Olivas, DA Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, said she is expecting that the financial grants from the government will be put in proper use.

Olivas noted that the No. 1 culprit behind business failures is miscommunication among members.

"The key lesson is that transparency and good governance among offices and their members are crucial to the success of every corporate-like business," Olivas said.

Meanwhile, the DA reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to strengthening agribusiness in Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) with the continued rollout of initiatives like the Kadiwa Financial Grant Assistance Program.

It said that by empowering local farmers and cooperatives with the support they need, the DA envisions a more resilient, inclusive and market-driven agricultural sector.