Vol. XXVII No.

A monthly publication of the Department of Agriculture

May 2012

Agri industry grows by 1% in Q1 2012

The countrys agriculture industry grew by 1.08 percent (%) in the first three months of 2012, bannered by the poultry, livestock and crop subsectors, while fishery production contracted due to conservation measures and high operating costs. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said the production of corn increased by 5.4% to 2.017 million metric tons (MMT), while palay output declined by 1% to 3.99 MMT. The first quarter palay production is not at all a setback, as last years 1st quarter palay output was a record at 4.037 MMT. Our palay production target remains on track, as we expect to harvest 3.846 MMT in the 2nd quarter based on standing crop, and another 3.413 MMT in the 3rd quarter based on planting intentions, said Secretary Alcala, citing estimates of the DAs Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS). The third quarter palay harvest may still increase as a result of the early planting scheme adopted by farmers served by maj or irrigation systems in Luzon, where at least 150,000 hectares are covered, the DA chief added. In all, the countrys total first semester palay production is forecast to reach 7.838 MMT, 3.4% more than in 2011, while the January to September 2012 palay output may top 11.251 MMT, 4.7% more than last years nine-month output of 10.746 MMT. (Pls turn to p2)

Navotas fishport to be modernized, worth P2.7-B

Metro Manila and suburbs will enjoy more supply and stable prices of fresh and quality fish with the upgrading of the 35-year old Navotas Fish Port Complex (NFPC). Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said this would be the scenario in 2015, when the 47.5-hectare fish port complex would have been renovated and modernized. The upgrading of the NFPC, costing P2.7 billion, is one of the five big infrastructure projects recently endorsed and submitted by the Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) for approval by the NEDA Board, chaired by President Benigno S. Aquino. The project, to be completed in four years, will be supervised by the DA through the Philippine Fish Development Authority (PFDA). It will entail three major activities, namely: upgrading of landing quay, market halls, piers, parking areas, drainage
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President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Agriculture Secretary Proceso J Alcala, presents to Mayor Michelle Marie Denise Rabat of Mati City, Davao Oriental a certificate of recognition during the Parangal sa mga Bosing ng Kanayunan, highlighting the DA-Mindanao Rural Development Program (DA-MRDP) Peoples Organizations Congress, May 14, 2012, in Davao City. Mati City and five other LGUs, and a fisherfolk group were honored as the best DA-MRDP project implementers, and received P13 million in project grants. Also shown is Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon.

P-Noy: DA-MRDP promotes inclusive growth, good governance

President Benigno S. Aquino III has cited the Department of Agricultures Mindanao Rural Development Program (DAMRDP) as it continues to promote inclusive growth and good governance in Mindanao. He made the commendation at the DA-MRDP Peoples Organizations (PO) Congress in Davao City, May 14, 2012, attended by 1,500 farmers, fisherfolk, indigenous peoples and rural women, who are beneficiaries of the programs Community Fund for Agricultural Development (CFAD). Pagdating po sa kaunlaran, walang sinuman ang dapat maiwan yan po ang bisyon natin. Ito ay hindi tinutupad ng isang tao o isang institusyon lamang; nagbubukal ito sa mabuting pamamahala, at sa pakikiisa ng pamahalaan at taumbayan, President Aquino said. Sa tulong ng MRDP, itinataguyod natin ang pagkakaroon ng sapat na pagkain sa hapag ng bawat pamilya, ang pagkakaloob ng disenteng trabaho, at marangal na pamumuhay, he added. For his part, Secretary Alcala said the DA is proposing a twoyear extension of the MRDP to
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DA to help small banana farmers set up packaging houses

The Department of Agriculture (DA) will help modernize and upgrade the packaging facilities of small banana growers in Mindanao to meet world-class standards. Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said the DA through the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) has identified the growers who will receive the assistance so they could meet stringent sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) requirements and comply with international standards. The DA will allot up to P500,000 to upgrade each
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Editorial
MRDP: Modelong programang pangkaunlaran
Nitong buwan ng Mayo muli nating binibigyan ng kaukulang pagpupugay ang ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda. Nagkaroon ng mga palatuntunan sa ibat-ibang panig ng bansa na pinangunahan ng Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka, at isa na rito ang pagtitipon ng mga Peoples Organization (PO) sa Lungsod ng Davao, na dinaluhan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III bilang panauhing pandangal. Sa kanyang mensahe, binigyang-diin ni Pangulong Aquino ang kahalagahan ng matatag na samahan at pagkakaisa ng mga magsasaka at mangingisda, lokal na pamahalaan at iba pang mga katuwang sa sektor ng sakahan at pangisdaan. At itoy ipinakita ng Department of Agriculture sa pamamagitan ng Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP). Ani Pangulong Aquino: Pagdating po sa kaunlaran, walang sinuman ang dapat maiwan? Iyan po ang ambisyon natin. Ito ay hindi tinutupad ng isang tao o isang institusyon lamang; nagbubukal ito sa mabuting pamamahala, at pagkakaisa ng pamahalaan at taumbayan. Sa tulong ng MRDP, itinataguyod natin ang pagkakaroon ng sapat na pagkain sa hapag ng bawat pamilya, ang paglikha ng karagdagan at disenteng trabaho para sa marangal na pamumuhay. Hindi biro ang inilaki at inilawak ng tagumpay ng inyong samahan. Tumaas ang kita ng ating mga kababayan dito ng halos labimpitong porsyento, buhat nang magsimula ang programa. Katumbas ito ng mahigit labing-isang libong piso na karagdagang kita kada taon. Nabanggit din ni Pangulong Aquino ang mahusay na paggamit ng MRDP ng geotagging isang paraan upang makita sa pamamagitan ng litrato at satellite imagery ang mga proyekto kagaya ng mga farm-to-market road (FMR), upang ang mga proyekto ay matukoy sa mapa na may nakatatak na oras, araw at taon. Itoy mainam na requirement upang ang pagpopondo sa mga FMR ay hindi maulit o madoble o kayay mgaoverlap. Bukod dito pinuri rin ni Pangulong Aquino ang mga naitayong tulay, patubig, at post harvest facility na nagbigay sa taumbayan ng maaliwalas na pamumuhay at patuloy na naghahatid ng magandang oportunidad. Kaya naman, umangat ang produksyon, kita at antas ng kabuhayan ng mga magsasaka at mangingisda sa mga lugar na sakop ng MRDP. Dagdag pa ni Pangulong Aquino: Dahil sa nakikitang pag-unlad at pagbabago ng pamumuhay ng mga nasasakop na komunidad, nabuhay ang tiwala ng ating mga kababayan sa ating programa. Tunay pong kapag ang pondo ay matuwid na ginugugol, aasenso ang Pilipino. Ganado ang taumbayan na makilahok, itaguyod at ingatan ang mga naisakatuparang proyekto. Bilang pang-wakas, sabi niya: Pangarap ko pong magpamana ng isang bagong Pilipinas sa susunod na salinlahi. Buo ang aking loob na matutupad ang mga ito dahil sa inyo na kabalikat ng pamahalaan sa pagtahak ng matuwid na daan. Katuwang ang mga Peoples Organizations, tuloy-tuloy ang ating paghahatid ng liwanag, pagasa at masaganang bukas sa bawat sulok ng Pilipinas. Hindi ko makalimutan ang mga nasambit ng aking ama: Alam mo iho, bago isipin iyong freedom of assembly, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, at iba-iba pang freedom, ang unang freedom na kailangan makamtan ay freedom from hunger. Kaya naman, tuloy-tuloy ang pagpapatupad ng mga programa kagaya ng MRDP at pagbibigay ng ayuda ng Pamahalaang Aquino upang umasenso ang kabuhayan ng ating mga kababayan sa kanayunan, lalung-lalo na ang mga maliliit na magsasaka at mangingisda. Itoy upang lumaki ang kanilang ani at kita, at magampanan ang kanilang gawain nang tayong lahat ay may kakainin sa araw-araw, at walang kakalam na sikmura. Muli, ating bigyan ng pugay ang ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda sa kanilang napakahalagang ambag na maibsan ang gutom at kahirapan sa buong bansa. Mabuhay!

Agri industry grows ...

The projected harvests when realized would be the highest in the countrys history, said DA Assistant Secretary for policy and planning and BAS Director Romeo Recide. In all, the total value of the countrys agriculture output for the first quarter of 2012 amounted to P341.1 billion (B) at current prices, 3% less than last year for the same threemonth period. Together, the production of major crops, livestock and poultry commodities expanded by 2.26%. Production of other crops like coconut, pineapple, coffee and rubber registered respective increments. The crops subsector, which contributed 53% to total agricultural output, grossed P195.1 B at current prices, 7.5% less than last year. The livestock subsector recorded a 3% gain in production. It accounted for 15.5% of total agricultural output. The growth was mainly attributed to the 3.4% increase in hog production. The hog industry comprised 85% of the livestock subsector,

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whose total value amounted to P49.86 B at current prices. The poultry subsector, contributing 14% to total agricultural output, expanded by 7%. The growth was boosted by the 7.4% growth in chicken production. The chicken industry contributes 74% to total poultry subsector, whose production amounted to P41.64 B at current prices. Finally, the fisheries subsector recorded a 4% decline, as conservation measures were implemented, particularly in Zamboanga Peninsula, where a moratorium was imposed in December 2011 through February 2012 to allow fish species like tamban (sardines) to regenerate. However, prospects are bright for the rest of the year, as the DA-BFAR moratorium has been lifted, Secretary Alcala said. Likewise, commercial fishers can now engage in tuna fishing in the Western Pacific, as the ban has been lifted, too. The total value of fishery harvest, which shared 17.6% to total agriculture output, amounted to P54.53 B at current prices.

PNoy: DA-MRDP promotes ...

pursue additional infrastructure and livelihood projects. The proposal has been endorsed by the National Economic and Development Authority-Investment Coordination Committee (NEDA-ICC) for approval by the NEDA Board, chaired by President Aquino. The MRDP2 commenced in 2007 and should end December 2012. Its implementation was delayed by 18 months due to technical problems, said MRDP deputy director Arnel de Mesa. During the PO Congress, President Aquino and Secretary Alcala also honored seven best MRDP performers and project

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implementers composed of six local government units and a fisherfolk group that received respective citations and project grants, totaling P13 million. They were selected from among thousands of DA-MRDP project beneficiaries. They are: Salay, Misamis Oriental for rural infrastructure implementation. The award, along with its prize of a P5-million project grant, was received by its Mayor Romeo L. Gue; Mati City, Davao Oriental for CFAD implementation. The award, along with its prize of a
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is published monthly by the Department of Agriculture Information Service, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City. Tel. nos. 9288762 loc 2148, 2150, 2155, 2156 or 2184; 9204080 or tel/fax 9280588. This issue is available in PDF file. For copies, please send requests via email: da_afis @yahoo.com; or download fom DA website www.da.gov.ph
Editor-In-Chief : Noel O. Reyes Associate Editors: Cheryl C. Suarez and Adora D. Rodriguez Writers: Jo Anne Grace B. Pera, Arlhene S. Carro, Bethzaida N. Bustamante, Mc. Bien Saint Garcia, Jay Ilagan, Catherine N. Nanta Contributors: DA-RFU Info Officers, Public Info Officers and staff of DA Bureaus, Attached Agencies & Corporations, Foreign-Assisted Projects Photographers: Jose Lucas, Alan Jay Jacalan , Kathrino Resurreccion Lay-out Artist: Bethzaida Bustamante Printing & Circulation: Teresita Abejar & PCES Staff

Siquijor, Negros Oriental get P35-M agri, fishery projects

The Department of Agriculture has extended a total of P35-million worth of agricultural and fishery assistance to the provinces of Siquijor and Negros Oriental to increase the productivity and incomes of small farmers and fisherfolk. Secretary Proceso J. Alcala turned over said assistance during his three-day visit (April 1921, 2012), and dialogue with farmers, fisherfolk, other stakeholders, and local government officials. He said his regular provincial visits are part of his commitment and as instructed by President Benigno S. Aquino III to bring government closer to the people and provide speedy assistance to small farmers and fisherfolk. Ako po ay narito dahil ipinagutos ng ating Pangulo na iparamdam sa inyong lahat na may gobyernong handang tumulong sa inyo, he said. In Siquijor, Secretary Alcala handed over certificates of award to project beneficiaries, including a barangay food terminal in the town of San Juan, and fishery projects under the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), amounting to P4.78 million. On the other hand, Negros Oriental received a total of P3.5M-worth of irrigation projects, hand tractor, and draft animals with implements. The two provinces also received about P27M-worth of various agricultural and fishery projects, equipment and inputs that were awarded to several farmersgroups, irrigators associations and local government units. The farm machinery and equipment include hand tractors, village-type corn dryers, multipurpose dryers, palay shed, and cassava graters. Secretary Alcala also raffled off farm and fishery implement during the forum that include motorized bancas, knapsack sprayers, rice and corn seeds, fish nets, and laminated sacks, among others. He also met with small farmers and fishers to discuss and resolve their specific concerns and requests. In Siquijor, among the issues raised is the absence of a double A slaughterhouse, and unavailability of sea transport to ferry livestock animals to markets in Cebu and nearby provinces. Siquijor Governor Orlando A. Fua, Jr. said the slaughterhouse is most needed as their livestock production is increasing, and farmers do not have the means

to sell their produce to markets outside of the province. Related to this, Secretary Alcala said the DA will propose to the World Bank (WB) a Central Philippines Rural Development Program (CPRDP) that aims to empower small farming and fishing communities, and respective LGUs by providing
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DA-NIA mini hydros to ease power crisis

At least 100,000 houses will benefit from electricity that will be generated by about 40 mini-hydropower plants that will be set up as part of existing irrigation systems of the DAs National Irrigation Administration (NIA). Secretary Alcala said the setting up of mini hydropower plants is the DA-NIAs contribution to ease the power crisis particularly in Mindanao. The initiative will be spearheaded by NIA in partnership with interested investors and local government units. NIA Administrator Antonio Nangel said an irrigation system could produce at least 20 megawatts (MW) of electricity daily. Hence, the targeted 40 power plants could supply electricity to more than 100,000 houses. He said they have already identified 79 irrigation systems nationwide that could be complemented with approprpaite designs of mini hydropower plants. He said the NIA targets to put up the 40 mini hydro power plants before end of this December this year: 20 in Luzon, and 10 each in the Visayas, and Mindanao. He also said that each hydropower plant will only cost P20 million. This will be shouldered by interested investors or local government units. By May 2013, he said the DA-NIA targets to cover the remaining 39 irrigation systems that are appropriate for the setting up of a mini-hydro power plant. (Tempo)

DA Chief visits lapu-lapu fish cage, mangrove projects in Zamboanga Sibugay. Secretary Alcala (2 nd from right)

watches lapu-lapu being harvested (inset) at a fish cage project of the Kapunungan sa mga Gagmayang Mangingisda sa Concepcion (KGMC), in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay, along with 2nd District Representative Jonathan Yambao (3rd from right), and other DA and local government officials. KGMC chairman Roberto Ballon (right) said his group also implements a mangrove rehabilitation project and a garbage disposal system, in partnership with the Kabasalan municipal government. Also shown (from left) are DA Region 9 technical dir. (RTD) Constancio Alama, DA-OSEC RTD Joaquin Abejar, DA-BFAR Region 9 Dir. Ahadulla Sajili, DAOSEC technical adviser Teresa Saniano, and DA Assistant Secretary Edilberto De Luna. (Photos by Alan Jay Jacalan & Teresa Saniano)

BFAR installs 25 payaos along Zambales coast

The DAs Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has as of end of May installed 25 units of payao, a fish aggregating device, in the coastal waters off Zambales to benefit marginal fishermen affected by the existing fihing ban at the Bajo de Masinloc or Panatag Shoal. The payaos were deployed 10 to 15 kilometers from the shoreline of nine municipalities, namely: Botolan, Cabangan, Narciso, San Felipe, San Antonio, Masinloc, Candelaria, Sta. Cruz and Paluig. The Bureaus 60-meter research and oceanographic vessel, M/V DA-BFAR, was used to deploy the payaos. BFAR director Atty. Asis G. Perez said the payaos would benefit at least 750 to 1000 fishermen, as 30 to 40 fishermen can fish on each unit. The bureau will install a total of 150 payaos along municipal waters at the West Philippine Sea. The deployment will resume after the southwest monsoon or habagat season. Perez said in addition to the payaos, Zambales fishermen will be given multiple handline fishing gears with C-hooks to ensure that only big species of fish are caught at the payao. Unlike the common J-shaped hooks, the C-hook is safe for turtles, which may accidentally feed on the bait.
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May 2012

Caviteos get P22-M worth agri projects

The Department of Agriculture has allotted more than P22 million of infrastructure projects, processing facilities, and farm equipment and inputs to Cavite farmers to further prop up their production and incomes. Secretary Alcala handed over said assistance to farmers groups and local government officials led by Governor Juanito Victor C. Remulla, Jr., during a provincial forum, May 18, 2012, in Trece Martirez City, attended by over 1,000 farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders. The agricultural projects include: a small water impounding proj ect, worth P5 M for Poblacion, Carmona; a P5-M farm-to-market road project for Brgy. Kaytambog; a P3.4-M aquasilviculture proj ect for Cavite State University; a P3-M diversion dam for Tambong Kulit, Indang; a P2.5-M coffee roasting facility for Amadeo; a P1.2M 90-HP 4-wheel drive tractor worth P1.2 M for the provincial government of Cavite; a coffee processing facility worth P500,000 for Silang; and various farm implements and inputs worth P492,600. The DA chief also raffled off several farm implements and inputs. During the forum, Secretary Alcala encouraged Cavite farmers to expand their operations and increase production of major crops and vegetables, as they have relatively good climate and soil. More importantly the province is adjacent to Metro Manila, a strategic major market, he said. Currently,Cavite sources its food requirements like vegetables from Quezon and as far as Benguet. He said the province has a lot of potentials in the production of corn, coffee, vegetables and other high value crops, livestock,

Secretary Alcala talks to organic agriculture advocates at a nursery in Amadeo, Cavite, where he also dialogued with over 1,000 farmers, fishers, and stakeholders. He said that Cavite, in spite of prioritizing industrialization in the past years, has the potential to become selfsufficient in basic commodities like vegetables and coffee. With him (from left) are: Solar Organic Farms, Inc. President Emerito Remulla, William Cheng, and DA Region 4-A Director Vilma Dimaculangan.

Hand-made mangosteen capsules, anyone?

More and more Filipinos are now favoring natural, organic wellness products. These include indigenous vegetables and fruits, like mangosteen, which are said to contain antioxidants. There is one group in the country, particularly in Tagum City, in Mindanao, that is producing mangosteen capsules with their own hands, and coincidentally are members of a religious congregation, known as Handmaids of Christ the King or ACR Sisters. ACR stands for Ancillae Christi Regis. Two years ago, they started producing mangosteen capsules, painstakingly pounding pieces of dried mangosteen rind into powder, using a simple mortar and pestle. The powdered rind is later put into biodegradable capsules, and packed for sale. The proceeds are ploughed back to sustain the ACR herbal medicine processing facility and the rest is used to support their apostolic and charitable activities. Sister Concordia Pingoy, ACR Superior General, said they are currently producing 100,000 mangosteen capsules a month, which they sell at P3 each, at designated outlets in Tagum City. The ACR sisters also churn out malunggay and yellow ginger or

marine and aquaculture products. In this regard, he instructed concerned DA officials directors Jennifer Remoquillo of the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) and Leandro Gazmin of Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS) to coordinate with Cavite provincial, city and municipal agriculture officers, and farmers groups to expand the provinces vegetable industry, and assist them in marketing their produce. Secretary Alcala also urged farmers and local government officials to revive their coffee industry, and regain their distinction as a major producer of quality coffee beans. He likewise enjoined them to consider growing cacao, as it could also thrive well in the province. W hile in Cavite, Secretary Alcala also visited the Dairy Processing Center and Pig City (JE Farm) in General Trias, and the Upland Green Farm and Caf Amadeo in Amadeo. He was accompanied by top DA officials led by assistant secretaries Edilberto de Luna and Salvador Salacup, Minda Manantan of NMIS, Rubina Cresencio of BAI, Asis Perez of BFAR, and Vilma Dimaculangan of DA Region 4-A, and NIA administrator Antonio Nangel. (Cath
Nanta, DA-Info. Service)

DA assists religious group produce mangosteen capsules.

Secretary Alcala listens as Sister Concordia Pingoy, Superior General of the Handmaids of Christ the King or ACR Sisters, in Tagum City, explains the health benefits of mangosteen rind which her congregation processes into capsules (inset). The DA has provided the group with a hammermill and a food grade dryer to further increase their production, currently at 100,000 capsules a month, which they sell at P3 each. Also shown are two ACR Sisters and Tagum City Coordinator Arturo Maigo, Jr.

turmeric capsules. She said the demand for their herbal capsules are gradually picking up, as those who had tried and experienced the beneficial effects, and became healthier, serve as their endorsers and promoters. Sister Pingoy said her group has a pending accreditation with the Bureau of Food and Drug Administration. They filed their application last March 2012. From the initial production level of 30,000 capsules a month, or an average of 1,000 capsules daily, their output this year has more than tripled to 100,000 capsules a month, when the DA provided them a hammermill. Their production is expected to further pick up, as Secretary Proceso J. Alcala committed to provide them a food grade dryer. To ensure their source of raw materials in the succeeding years, the DA Davao region will provide 500 mangosteen seedlings for planting in adj oining areas.
(NOR, DA Information Service)

Phl produces first anhydrous ethanol from sweet sorghum

After the successful conduct of sweet sorghum trials in Negros Occidental, the commercial production of sweet sorghum is now reaping harvest and was able to produce the first ever anhydrous ethanol from sweet sorghum in the Philippines. A sugarcane-producing region, Negros Occidental opened its doors to commercial scale production of sweet sorghum with a devoted area of 30 hectares in Sagay City, Negros Occidental. In 2011, the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) funded the sweet sorghum trials in Negros Occidental and showed promising result as a viable and complementary feedstock to sugarcane and prompted the commercial scale production of sweet sorghum in the region. This serves as an offshoot activity for the 1st Sweet Sorghum Summit and Plantation Showcase in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental in June 2011. These activities were implemented by the University of the Philippines Los Baos Foundation, Incorporated (UPLBFI) to showcase sweet sorghums complementary potential compared to sugarcane as bioethanol feedstock. Since 2006, BAR has been funding and coordinating different projects on sweet sorghum. The b u r e a u started supporting R&D activities for sweet sorghum from its initial production, its adaptability testings to its commercializat ion. Sweet sorghum is d u b b e d smart and wonder crop and can be utilized as food, feed, fuel, and fertilizer. This sets another milestone in R&D initiatives of BAR, strengthened by our collaboration with R&D partner-institutions such as the state universities and colleges (SUCs) and other stakeholders, said BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar. The project implemented a parallel-system with sugarcane harvesting practices to easily introduce, hence, adopt sweet sorghum by the farmers. Convinced Prof. Rex Demafelis of the UPLB Alternative Energy Research, Development and Extension convenor and chair of the UPLB Energy Systems Committee. Other than the beneficial uses of sweet sorghum, the farmers were encouraged to plant the crop which requires less inputs (fertilizer, water, etc.), added Mr. Anthony B. Obligado head of the Technology Commercialization Division (TCD) of BAR. He said sweet sorghum could be harvested thrice a year compared to 11 months for sugarcane, thus resulting to more production and bigger income. After harvesting 480 tons of sweet sorghum cane, OPTION Muscovado Plant Cooperative (MPC) facilitated the milling to produce sweet sorghum syrup. The syrup was sent to San Carlos Bioenergy Inc. (SCBI) which was able to produce 15,231 liters of bioethanol. Funded by DA-BAR, the production of sweet sorghum syrup to bioethanol is a collaborative work between UPLBFI, SCBI, and OPTION MPC. (Ma. Eloisa H.
Aquino, DA-BAR)

w ith the promising future of sweet sorghum, the local government unit of Sagay and private farm land owners of sugarcane areas tried planting sweet sorghum. The whole production cycle entailed a manpower of 92 workers in a day for four days during the harvest time that provided income opportunities, explained

Dairy production is lucrative, profitable

There is a big opportunity for Filipino farmers to transform local dairying into a profitable and competitive enterprise. Thus said Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala in a speech, delivered on his behalf by Assistant Secretary for Livestock Davinio Catbagan, during the 15th Dairy Congress, May 16 to 18, 2012, in Baguio City. The DA chief urged farmers and entrepreneurs to take a serious look at dairy farming, as there is a huge market for milk and dairy products. He said the Philippines consumes roughly P65-billion worth of milk and dairy products every year, which are mostly imported, and that only one out of four glasses of fresh milk sold in the country is produced locally. This is the big opportunity that government through the DA and the private sector through the Dairy Confederation of the Philippines (DairyCon) is capitalizing on to encourage more farm families, entrepreneurs and investors to engage in dairy farming, including milk processing and marketing. Secretary Alcala said the DA through the National Dairy Authority (NDA) has been pursuing programs to prop up the industry. These include herd build-up, business enhancement, milk quality assurance and milk feeding program for schoolchildren. NDA Administrator Grace Cenas said they have crafted a medium-term, 2011 to 2016 Dairy Industry Roadmap that aims to increase the local dairy herd to 55,000 head that would supply 50 percent of the countrys fresh milk market. The six-year program would also generate a total 22,000 jobs in the countryside, and milkfeed one million schoolchildren. During the Congress, the DairyCon, chaired by Danilo Fausto, proposed a resolution to impose a 1% tariff on imported milk products that will be used to subsidize local milk production and develop the industry. Former Representative Mark Coj uangco (5 th District, Pangasinan), who served as this years Congress Director, said the country has to produce an abundant supply of fresh milk,

DA Assistant Secretary for livestock Dr. Davinio Catbagan (2nd from right) represented Secretary Alcala at the 15th National Dairy Congress, in Baguio City, May 16, 2011. With him are National Dairy Authority administrator Grace Cenas (right), and (from left) former Pangasinan Representative Mark Cojuangco, National DairyCon chairman Danilo V. Fausto, USDA agricultural counsellor Phillip Schull, former Senator Leticia Ramos-Shahani, and DairyCon vicechair Antonio G. Manikan. (Photo by NDA)
and make it affordable, so that drinking milk will become a habit among Filipinos, specially children. As part of the three-day Congress, he hosted a visit to his dairy farm in Laoac, Pangasinan. Former Senator Leticia Shahani, who co-authored Republic Act 7884 or the National Dairy Development Act of 1995, urged the media to help government and the DairyCon to undertake a massive information campaign to promote drinking of fresh milk. New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Reuben Levenmore also served as guest and speaker at the event.
(Catherine Nanta, DA Info. Service and Farina S. Dy, NDA Visayas)

May 2012

MGA MENSAHE
Kaisa ng sambayanang Pilipino, binabati ko ang Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka at ang ating mga kampeon sa kanayunan ang ating mga magsasaka at maningisda sa pagdiriwang ng Farmers and Fisherfolks Month. Kaakibat ng adhikaing makapagbigay ng disenteng hanapbuhay sa mga Pilipino, isinusulong natin ang pagkakaroon ng sapat at abot-kayang pagkain sa hapag ng bawat pamilya. Ang tagumpay ng layuning ito ay tiyak na maghahatid ng mas maraming oportunidad para sa mga komunidad ng magsasaka at maningisda; ito ang magbibigay sa kanila ng pagkakataong panghawakan ang sariling kinabukasan at tumulay mula kahirapan tungo sa pag-asenso. Sa pangunguna ng Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka, itinataguyod natin ang kapakanan at mga pangangailangan ng sektor ng agrikultura. Tuloy-tuloy ang pagsasaayos natin ng imprastraktura upang maging mas masagana ang ani. Nais na po natin ang positibong resulta ng ating mga mabuting pamamahala: mas mataas na produksiyon ng palay, mas matatag na kompiyansa ng mga negosyante, at mas maraming agri-business opportunities para sa lahat. Sino nga po bang mag-aakalang sa susunod na taon ay maari na tayong maging net exporter ng bigas? Patunay ito sa umuunlad na sektor ng agrikultura, at sa mas maliwanag na bukas para sa ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda. Paigtingin natin ang ating bayanihan upang higit pa nating mapaglingkuran ang ating mga mamayan. Sama-sama nating pagyamanin sa ating mga puso ang binhi ng katapatan, dangal, at pananagutan, tungo sa pagpapatotoo sa panata nating patas at masaganang bayan.

Silent, unrecognized heroes

Mannalon, Mag-uuma, Magbabaul, Magsasaka four dialects, one meaning. Known for many terms depending on the geographical location and cultural influence, one thing remains to be the common determination when we talk about farmers they are our silent and unrecognized heroes said Provincial Governor Erlpe John M. Amante in his message during his welcome remarks at the P4MP (Pambansang Mannalon, Mag-uuma, Magbabaul at Magsasaka ng Pilipinas) National Convention. The activity, led by the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) with the support of the DA RFU XIII was held at Butuan City Caraga region, last May 2 to 4. ATI has also partnered with other government agencies, LGUs, NGOs, and the private sectors to make the convention successful. The activity was participated in by more than 150 farmers and fisherfolk from the different regions of the Philippines. This reflects farmers interests to be partners in the transformation of the nations agricultural landscape with the theme Pagkakaisa ng Magsasaka Tugon sa Kaunlaran ng Kabuhayan at Kalikasan, the activity also offered substantive information of the Agri Pinoy Framework as a vehicle to propel agricultural development. For his part, DA Asst. Secretary Dante S. Delima said the department wants to strengthen all the more the relationship of the farmers and the government. Farming contributed in creating jobs for the rural communities with combined efforts to make farming profitable, targeting the young generations interest in agriculture. Developing farmers capabilities as leaders and help them to value commitment for their work is the top priority of the current administration, says Asec. Delima. He also acknowledged the big contribution of the farmers in the countrys economy. The highlights of the three-day affair include series of lectures-discussions, updates on sustainable agriculture and farmers best practices. There was also a press conference participated in by Asec. Delima, P4MP national and regional presidents, and the local media. During the 3rd day, they had project visitations to the following agricultural sites in Butuan: Provincial Demonstration Farm of Agusan del Norte, ATI and PhilRice-Agusan. Through this, farmers potentials were strengthened as new learning was acquired. P4MP plays a vital role in the realization of DAs goals. As governments partner, the opportunity to attend conventions and trainings, to be taught, to be guided, and to be prepared for what is to come is truly a right and not a privilege for the farmers. Also present during the convention were: Hon. Maria Angelica M. Amante Matba, Representative for the 2nd District of Agusan del Norte, Hon. Jose Aquino III, Representative 1st District of Butuan City & Las Nieves and Hon. Joseph Victor Ejercito of San Juan District, Metro Manila. (DA-RAFID XIII)

Benigno S. Aquino III President, Republic of the Philippines

Malugod akong bumabati sa ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda sa pagdiriwang ng Farmers and Fisherfolks Month ngayong buwan ng Mayo. Naaangkop ang tema ng pagdiriwang na Sapat na pagkain, sama-sama nating kamtin! bunsod ng maraming pagbabago sa agrikultura - isa sa pinakamahalagang sektor ng bayan. Todo ang aksyon ng ating gobyerno sa pamamagitan ng Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka. Sinisikap nating punuan ang mga pangangailangang teknikal at imprastraktura para sa mga magsasaka, mangingisda at agri-entrepreneur. Kasama dito ang pagsasaayos ng mga irigasyon, pamimigay ng mga solar dryers at pagpapagawa ng mga farm-tomarket roads. Ngunit hindi lang ang Kagawaran ang mag-isa sa pagkamit ng sapat na pagkain. Kaakibat natin ang lahat nang mamamayan - mga negosyante, mga siyentista at mananaliksik, mga lider at kasapi ng NGOs at lalung-lalo na ang mga magsasaka at mangingisda na nagsasaliksik at gumagamit ng bagong terknolohiya na siyang nagpapataas ng produksyon at nagpapababa ng gastusin sa pagsasaka. Kaya naman, ipinaaabot natin ang mas maigting na pagsuporta at pagsisikap para higit kayong matulungan. Handa tayong makinig at umaksyon sa inyong mga hinaing at pangangailangan, nang mapaunlad narin ang sektor ng agrikultura. Ito ay hindi lamang sa pagpapataas ng produksyon, kundi higit sa pagtulong para umasenso ang magsasaka. Pangunahin nating layon na sa hinaharap, mula sa pagiging magsasaka, kayo ay maging agri-entrepreneur. Ito ang aming panata ibigay ang karampatang tulong at suporta sa inyo nang makapagdala ng higit na asenso sa magsasaka, mangingisda at mga agri-entrepreneur. Mabuhay ang mga mangingisda at magsasaka!

Proceso J. Alcala Secretary, Department of Agriculture

Sapat na pagkain, sama-sama nating kamtin!

The Department of Agriculture (DA) once again spearheads the nationwide observance of May as Farmers and Fisherfolks Month with the theme: Sapat na pagkain, Sama-sama nating kamtin! Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said the theme for this years celebration is apt and timely as the DA is frontloading its resources and focusing efforts to attain self-sufficiency in rice and major staples by end of 2013. He said let us continue to pay tribute to the countrys farmers and fisherfolk, and at the same time provide them needed assistance so we could jointly attain national sufficiency in rice and major staples by end of 2013. Kaya naman, sa pagdiriwang ng buwan ng mga magsasaka at mangingisda, samahan at bigyan natin ng kaukulang tulong at ayuda upang makamit natin ang pambansang kasapatan sa bigas at iba pang pangunahing pagkain sa katapusan ng taong 2013, Secretary Alcala said. For his part, DA Undersecretary for operations Joel Rudinas, who chairs the national steering committee of the 2012 Farmers and Fisherfolks month celebration, said the DA family that includes the regional field units (RFUs), bureaus, and attached agencies and corporations nationwide had lined several activities, starting with a national convention of Pambansang Mannalon, Mag-uuma, Magbabaul at Magsasaka ng

Agriculture Undersecretaries Antonio Fleta (left) and Joel Rudinas open the 2012 Farmers and Fisherfolks Month celebration, on May 14, 2012 , at the DA central office lobby, which was replicated in other DA family offices nationwide. Also shown is Deputy Executive Director Felix Valenzuela of the DAs Livestock Development Council.
Pilipinas (P4MP), May 2-4, 2012, in Butuan City. Spearheaded by the DAs Agricultural Training Institute, the event was attended by more than 300 leaders of farmers and fishers groups. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) commenced on May 2, 2012 itsFisherfolk Directors Program, where fisherman-leaders serve as BFAR regional and national directors for one month, according to BFAR national director Asis Perez. From May 14 to 18, Undersecretary Rudinas said several activities had been lined up at the DA central office, which included an agri trade fair and tiangge, a forum on farmers and fisherfolks best practices, a mass in honor of patron saint of peasants San Isido Labrador, and cooking demonstrations, among others. At the latter part of the month, a national convention of 4-H clubs and young farmers organizations was held in Aklan. And to continuously address the needs and concerns of farmers, fisherfolk and local officials, Secretary Alcala continues to visit and dialogue with farmers, fisherfolk and local government officials and agri-fishery industry stakeholders to provide them needed assistance to increase their productivity and incomes..

Fisherfolk official promotes food security

This years Mangingisdang (Fisherman) Direktor for Eastern Visayas, Enriqueto R. Galerio is spending the entire month of May going around the region, exhorting his fellow-fishermen here to help ensure food security. Galero, 52, a fisherfolk leader from Pambuj an, Northern Samar, was chosen as one of the fisherfolk director for one month under the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Mangingisdang Direktor program in connection with the annual observance of Farmers and Fisherfolks Month. On May 4, Galero was at an aquasilviculture project orientation organized by BFAR. Aquasilviculture involves growing fishes and other aquatic organisms in a mangrove area. According to BFAR, the system is an environment-friendly approach to enhance fisheries production in the wild, while rehabilitating mangrove habitat which currently represents less than a quarter of what used to be a 550,000-hectare mangrove cover in the 1950s. Among the projects Galero visited around Eastern Visayas were mussel projects in Jiabong; Hinunangan, Hinundayan, San Juan, Macrohon and Liloan in Southern Leyte. He participated in tilapia seeding in North Leyte, mangrove planting in Inopacan and observed the Ormoc Hatchery in Ormoc City. He also visited the Pearl-Island in Guiuan, the Lawaan Fish Sanctuary and the Borongan Hatchery, all in Eastern Samar. Last May 16, Galero participated in a public consultation on the United Nations Resolution 197-1 regarding Draft Food and Agricultural Organizations which concerns the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources for food and agriculture.
(Manila Bulletin)

Secretary Alcala said the Philippines is set to sell fancy, upland and aromatic next year, during the National Convergence Initiative (NCI) for Sustainable Rural Development Summit, May 17, 2012, at the DA-Bureau of Soils Convention Hall, in Quezon City. During the event, he led the signing of continued commitment on a Philippine map showing the major NCI projects nationwide. Joining him are Environment and Natural Resources Assistant Sec. Marlo Mendoza (center) and Agrarian Reform Sec. Virgilio delos Reyes (right). The summit is part of the Farmers and Fisherfolks month celebration, attended by more than 500 farmers and stakeholders. May 2012

Marawi, Lanao Sur get P23-M support

The Department of Agriculture awarded a total of P2-million (M) worth of agri-fishery farm equipment and inputs was distributed to 23 cooperatives and four Local Government Units (LGUs) during the visit of Secretary Proceso J. Alcala in Marawi City and Lanao del Sur on May 8, 2012. He awarded the respective certificates of turn-over and acceptance to the cooperatives and LGUs, at a farmers and fishermens forum in Lanao del Sur. Also present were Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr., DAFARMM Secretary Sangkula A. Tindick, Assistant Secretary Pendatun Disimban and BFARARMM Director Janice Desamito-Musali. Sa nakita kong init ng pagtanggap po ninyo sa amin, sa buong grupo, buong pamilya ng Kagawaran ng Agrikultura, babalik po ako dito at tutulong ako sa inyo. Nakita ko po na marami po tayong pwedeng pagsamahan, marami po tayong pagpartneran at palagay ko Governor kapag ito pong ating pinagpartneran kasama ang mga Mayors, mas mabilis po nating mapagbago ang buhay ng mga taga Lanao del Sur, Secretary Alcala said before a huge crowd of farmers, fisherfolk and local executives. Governor Adiong expressed his gratitude to Secretary Alcala for coming over to see for himself the situation of farmers and fishermen, and respond to their needs and concerns. Governor Adiong said mahina at di sapat na produksiyon dala ng kakulangan ng suporta, pasilidad at irrigation system ang pangunahing suliranin ng mga magsasaka dito. Ang pagbisita ni Secretary Alcala ang unang hakbang tungo sa kaunlaran ng agriculture dito sa Lanao del Sur. Kung kayat nananawagan ako sa civil society na magtulungan tayo. Hangad namin ang tagumpay ng Aquino Administration, ang DA at mga kapatid na umaasa sa agrikultura bilang pangkabuhayan, he added. The 23 farmers groups and cooperatives received various farm equipment and inputs, including 330 bags of certified rice seeds, 40 bags of organic fertilizers, abaca stripping machines, rice threshers, and shallow tube wells with engine pump sets. Secretary Alcala also committed to provide three units of corn mill for the corn-producing towns, and 20 head of carabao with plow and harrow. The DA-BFAR also turnedover 12 units of motorized fishing banca and eight units fish aggregate devices, worth P1.38 M, to six fisherfolks groups in Marawi City and Lanao del Sur, and LGUs of Balabagan, Kapatagan, Malabang and Picong. Secretary Alcala also led the dispersal of 100,000 tilapia fingerlings at Lake Lanao. At a forum, he instructed NIA Administrator Antonio Nangel to allocate additional funds for the rehabilitation of Kamanga Dam. It can irrigate more than 2,000 hectares in Ramain, Bubong and Buadiposo. He also instructed BFARARMM Director Desamito-Musali to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing a hatchery project near Lanao Lake. Malaki ang potential ng lawa subalit hindi ito napapansin ng pamahalan, the DA chief said. He said Lanao del Sur should actively participate in the governments national greening program, prioritizing rubber, coffee and cacao. (RAFID-ARMM)

DA sets up 2 onion storage facilities in NV

The Department of Agriculture recently inaugurated two onion storage facilities, worth P2.6 million (M), in Bone North and Darapidap, Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya. The facilities were funded by the DA through the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP). DA HVCDP National Program Coordinator Jennifer E. Remoquillo graced the simple inauguration ceremony. She said the two Aritao facilities are part of the 15 units constructed in 2011, with a total cost of P19.5 M. They were put up in selected oniongrowing municipalities in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Nueva Vizcaya, Nueva Ecija and Occidental Mindoro. The two facilities in Aritao were turned over to the farmers cooperative and its Municipal Mayor, Guillermo M. Peros. The onion hanger-type storage building in Aritao is a twostorey shed structure, and has a capacity of 2,000 to 4,000 bags (25 kgs each). The facility will benefit 902 onion farmers, who till a total area of 403 hectares. The DA is eyeing an expansion of 50 hectares in nearby Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya, Remoquillo said. During the inauguration and turnover ceremonies, DA region 2 Director Lucrecio R. Alviar, Jr. enjoined the Aritao farmers to make optimum use of the facility to further increase their productivity and income. He also urged them to establish direct marketing agreements with institutional buyers. He said the onion hanger storage will be replicated at the DA Cagayan Valley Hillyland Research Outreach Station, headed by Celerina T. Miranda. For his part, DA region 2 HVCDP coordinator Robert Olinares said with the facilities, more Aritao farmers will be encouraged to plant onions, which are considered of good quality and preferred by buyers and traders. (DA-HVCDP)

BFAR bans export of young eels

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has re-issued a ban on the export of elvers (young eel) to stop its exploitation. Fishermen excessively gathered elvers as price shoot up more than 10-fold from P2,500 last year to P28,000, from January to March this year. Locally known as dalara, elver fry are gathered along river banks and sea shore using nets (tanggar) and push nets (dus dus). They are shipped to Manila for export to other Asian countries. Eels are a delicacy in Japan, China and Korea. Eels blood is believed as energy-giving and source of strength for men. If we dont impose the ban then there is a high chance that eels will suffer the same fate as ludong, said Dir. Jovita Ayson, of DA-BFAR region 2. She said they will work with respective local government units in Cagayan to enjoin them to craft ordinance to manage and protect not only eels but other indigenous fish species. The export ban on elvers is embodied under Fisheries Administrative Order No. 242, signed by Sec. Proceso Alcala last April 10, 2012. The ban took effect starting May 2012. Violators will be imprisoned for eight years, and required to pay a fine equivalent to double the export value of elvers they caught. (DA-BFAR Regn 2)

DA allots P6-M for Compostela Valley. Secretary Alcala and

Compostela Valley Governor Arturo T. Uy ride on a power tiller, which is part of more than P6-million worth of agricultural projects, farm machinery and equipment, inputs and fruit tree seedlings provided by the DA as its counterpart with the Provincial Government of Compostela Valley to increase the productivity and incomes of small farmers and fisherfolk. The DA is eyeing to develop a 6,000-hectare cluster in Compostela into a production area for fancy and upland rice, and other high value crops.

DA allots P13-M fishery, agri projects in Basilan DA-BFAR, LLDA

The Department of Agriculture has allotted P13 million (M) for various agriculture and fishery projects, equipment and inputs to further spur the productivity and incomes of Basilan farmers and fisherfolk. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala led the turnover of said proj ects during a forum at Basilans provincial capitol in Isabela City, where he dialogued with hundreds of farmers, fisherfolk and local government officials led by Governor Jum Jainuddin-Akbar, on April 27, 2012. The total allotment initially consisted of fishery and seaweed production projects worth P5-M, from the DAs Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR); P5-M from the DAs High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) for a rubber nursery to produce quality planting materials; P2.9-M for coconut seedlings, and salt fertilization and coconut planting projects, from the DAs Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA); rubber and grafted fruit tree seedlings worth P440,000, and 400,000 pieces of polyethylene bags; and assorted vegetable seeds for a Barangay Food Terminal project. Secretary Alcala also instructed DA-HVCDP national coordinator Jennifer Remoquillo to provide Basilan farmers with cacao and coffee seedlings for trial planting. During the forum, he listened and addressed the various concerns raised by farmers, fisherfolk, and LGU officials. He encouraged the farmers and fishers to organize themselves

to resolve Laguna Lakes concerns

The DAs Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DABFAR) and the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) are joining hands with the lakes fisherfolk and local government officials to resolve recurring fish kill and emergence of knife fish. BFAR director Asis G. Perez and LLDA general manager Neric Acosta, who is also concurrent Presidential Adviser for Environmental Protection, met initially with Calamba fisherfolk and local officials and discussed areas of cooperation and strategies to sustain the livelihood of fisherfolk and sustain supply of tilapia, bangus and other fish species raised in Laguna Lake. Perez said the DA-BFAR has initially deployed three of patrol boats manned by members of the agencys Fish Health and Quick Response Team. They will assist a multi-agency team that will respond to fish kill situations, undertake water quality monitoring, and provide early warning advise or bulletin. During the dialogue, lake fishermen said fish kills occur during the end of summer and onset of the rainy season. And recently, the situation is worsened by the emergence of knife fish, a carnivorous species, which has become a menace and predator. This was confirmed by laboratory tests conducted by the DABFARs National Inland Fisheries Technology Center which showed stomach of knife fishes caught had in their stomach parts of kanduli (a native catfish), small fishes, shrimps and shells, among others. Fishermen thus blame knife fish for the reduction of their daily catch and income from commercial fish species like tilapia, bangus, carp, kanduli, ayungin and shrimps. They said knife fish now comprises up to 30 percent of their daily catch. Some knife fish caught even as much as 10 to 20 kilos. The DA-BFAR said knife fish spawn and lay their eggs, which are seen attached to bamboo stakes and poles (known as tulos) in fish pens and cages. Hence, Director Perez advised fisherfolk to collect and destroy the eggs before they hatch, and at the same time harvest as many knife fish as possible to reduce the population in the lake.

Secretary Alcala (middle) inspects grafted rubber seedlings ready for distribution in Basilan to further spur the productivity and incomes of farmers and fisherfolk. Also in photo is DA-High Value Crops Development Program National Coordinator Jennifer Remoquillo (2nd from left, partly hidden). (Photo by Ramil Sotto, DA-9 Info Div.)
into cooperative so they could qualify and apply for loans and credit assistance with the Land Bank of the Philippines. He likewise encouraged Basilan local government officials, farmers and fisherfolk, and other agri-fishery industry stakeholders to craft a five-year agricultural and fishery development plan. He said the DA will assist them in crafting said plan, and committed to visit the province again. The DA Chief raffled off to lucky participants various farm and fishery equipment and implements that include fishing boat engines, several sets of cassava grater with presser, draft animals with implements, and gill nets, among others. Secretary Alcala was accompanied by several top DA officials in Basilan, among them were DA Assistant Secretary and national corn program coordinator Edilberto De Luna, DA-9 Dir. Eduardo Holoyohoy, DA-ARMM Secretary Sangkula Tindick, DABFAR Director Asis Perez, and DA-HVCDP Director Remoquillo.

Pacific tuna ban lifting to yield 90,000 MT

The reopening of the so-called pockets 1 and 2 of the Pacific Ocean to Philippine fishing vessels is expected to yield an additional catch of 90,000 metric tons of tuna. Several companies have already approached our office to seek international fishing permits, said Ambutong Pautong, BFAR Region 12 acting director. The DA-BFAR is set to publish the Fisheries Administrative Order on the matter, he said. The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) approved the lifting of the purse seine fishing ban in packets 1 and 2 of the Pacific Ocean until February 2013. With the bans lifting, 36 Philippine fishing vessels have been given limited access to the tuna fishing ground. But the probability of Philippine vessel deployment may come after September since the WCPFC is due to close for three months, starting July, the high seas of the Pacific Ocean as part of the yearly conservation measure, Pautong said. Thus, by October 2012 the production of tuna canneries in General Santos City, considered as the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, will pick up. Six of the seven tuna canneries in the country are based there. Their production went down due to the two-year fishing ban in the Pacific Ocean imposed by the WCPFC. Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, chairperson of the Mindanao Development Authority, who headed the Philippine delegation during the WCPFC meeting in Guam last April 2012, said while the country is granted with access, efforts must also be exerted to prevent abuse. Pautong said that part of the possible guidelines, in consultation with the Tuna Council of the Philippines, is assigning a specific catching ground to fishing companies included in the 36vessel allocation.
(Pls turn to p10)

May 2012

DA grants P6.5-M fishery, farm projects in Tawi-Tawi

The Department of Agriculture has provided Tawi-Tawi fishermen, farmers and their respective local government units with various fishery and farm equipment and inputs worth P6.5 million (M) to prop up their production and income. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala also committed to construct irrigation systems and establish agri-fishery trading post, during his visit on April 26, 2012, the first time since he assumed the DA post in July 2010. He met and dialogued with Tawi-Tawi fisherfolk, farmers, other stakeholders, and local government officials led by Governor Sadikul Sahali, at a Community Stakeholders Meeting, in the town of Panglima Sugala. During the forum, he led the distribution of various agriculture and fishery inputs amounting to P3.5-M from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Agri-Pinoy national corn program. These include 10 sets of cassava grater and presser; 100 sets of seaweed farming paraphernalia such as nylon, styro floaters and plastic tie; 100 sets of gill nets; and five units of 13-horsepower (HP) banca engines. The DA-BFAR will also provide an additional 55 units of 13-HP boat engines for distribution to the 11 island-municipalities in Tawi-Tawi through the respective

Five DA posts filled

In a series of special oders recently signed by Agriculture Chief Proceso J. Alcala, four lead positions for four DA bureaus and one service were filled up. Assistant Secretary Salvador Salacup was designated OIC-Executive Director of Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards, while Dr. Rubina Cresencio, Planning Officer of the Bureau of Animal Industry, was appointed as OIC-Director of BAI replacing Efren Nuestro, who will retire soon. On the other hand, Deputy Executive Director Minda Manantan is designated as National Meat Inspection Services (NMIS) OIC-Executive Director following the resignation of former Director Jane Bacayo. Likewise, Rex Bingabing took oath recently as the new Executive Director of Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization and Eduardo M. Chu as the new General Manager of the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority.

Secretary Alcala (2ndfrom left) discusses agri-fishery initiatives with Tawi-Tawi Governor Sadikul Sahali (left), during the DA chiefs first visit in the countrys southernmost province, where he committed an initial P6.5-million worth of fishery and farm projects, equipment and inputs to further prop up the productivity and incomes of fisherfolk, farmers and other ruralfolk. (Photo by DAF-ARMM Info Group) local government units that will undertake joint fishery law enforcement or Bantay-Dagat initiatives with the DA-BFAR under the Fish for Peace program in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). The DA also committed to provide 50 units cassava grater with presser worth P3 million as part of the Aquino administrations Food Staples Sufficiency Program (FSSP), during a meeting with farmer and fisherfolk leaders, and local officials led by Governor Sahali, at the provincial capitol in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. Secretary Alcala also discussed with ARMM Agriculture and Fisheries Regional Secretary Sangkula A. Tindick the proposed construction of irrigation projects that will benefit 500 hectares planted to rice in three municipalities (Tandubas, Panglima Sugala and Languyan). Capping his Tawi-Tawi visit, the DA chief also inspected agrifishery projects like a mariculture park and seaweed farm in Panglima Sugala, and a multispecies marine fish hatchery and payao proj ect, in Lato-Lato, Bongao. (DAF-ARMM RAFID)

Tuna Pacific ...

(from p9)

BFAR installs ...

Visit AFMIS Website @ http://afmis.da.gov.ph to get updated information on .....
agri-fisheries production data, demand & supply and price trends alternative markets for your agricultural products technologies that could improve your agricultural products and be competitive in the local and foreign markets directory of buyers/sellers of agri products better investment opportunities market outlets/trading centers for agri-fishery products market assistance and advisory services farmers and fishers success stories
Agriculture and Fisheries Market Information System (AFMIS) is a web-based system that integrates various information resources of the Market Development Cluster (MDC) agencies into a single data base and application system. It caters to the needs of farmers/ fisherfolk, traders, and other users of market information. The MDC is composed of Information Technology Center for Agriculture and Fisheries (ITCAF); Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS), Agriculture and Fisheries Information Service (AFIS), Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS); and National Agricultural and Fishery Council (NAFC).

(from p3)

A total of 1,500 units of multiple handline fishing gears will be provided by the bureau to all Zambales coastal municipalities. Perez said P2.4M has been earmarked for the planting of 400,000 mangrove propagules in Zambales. Under the program, affected fishermen could earn as much as P6 for each surviving mangrove propagule planted. He said a fisherman could earn as much as P10,500 for planting mangrove propagules, and an additional P7,500 after a year, when all the mangrove propagules have survived. Said projected income is several times more than the average income of Zambales fishermen, at P2,800 a month. At least 800 displaced fishermen could be given supplemental livelihood under the scheme.
(BFAR Information Group)

Tuna fishing companies have agreed to impose penalties as much as P1 million to a violator, he said. The WCPFC banned commercial fishing in pockets 1 and 2 of the high seas with the issuance of a Conservation and Management Measure or CMM in 2008 to mitigate overfishing of big-eye and yellow-fin tuna in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. The ban took effect in 2010. The Philippines is among the 25 WCPFC member-countries. For his part, BFAR Director Asis Perez said the Philippines must satisfactorily comply with the provisions of the CMM if we want to continue fishing in pockets 1 and 2 beyond 2013. Tuna remains as one of the top exports of the Philippines, valued at more than US$ 300 million in 2010. The tuna industry employs at least 100,000 people, from fishing, canning, processing and other auxiliary services. The US, Europe and Japan are the main buyers of Philippine tuna products. (PNA)

10

DA to help ...

(from p1)

packaging facility that would also enable small banana growers tap more export markets. Secretary Alcala said the banana farmers may also receive financial aid through the governments cash for work or the Pantawid-Buhay program under the Department of Social W elfare and Development (DSWD). As instructed by President Aquino, the DA is exploring other export markets for Philippine Cavendish banana which include Cambodia, Singapore and the Middle East. China has imposed strict inspection of Philippine bananas, after it found scale insects in some container vans last March 2012. This prompted Secretary Alcala to send a team to China led by BPI Director Clarito Barron to join their Chinese counterparts in inspecting container vans allegedly infested with scale insects, scientifically known as Aonidiella comperei. We wanted to assure them that our bananas are of highest standards and quality, Secretary Alcala said. As of third of week May 2012, Barron reported that 170 40footer vans with fresh Philippine bananas previously held have been cleared by Chinese quarantine officials. Secretary Alcala said China has not imposed a ban on Philippine bananas. Actually, our products were never banned. Our Chinese counterparts are merely conducting a more thorough and extended inspection of our fruit exports, the DA chief said. This episode should serve as a wake-up call for all us, he said, as we may have been lenient in complying with international quarantine protocols. From here on, we will impose a zero-tolerance policy with respect to insect and other contaminants. We have to keep a closer watch at our procedures and assure that these are strictly followed, he said. Barron said his team has met with their Chinese quarantine officials to consolidate mutual agreements and measures to prevent similar cases from happening. Meanwhile, Secretary Alcala said our offer still stands, referring to an invitation to Chinese quarantine experts to visit the Philippines, particularly Davao, to see first-hand how rigid our protocols and procedures are.
(PNA and DA Info. Service)

PNoy: DA-MRDP promotes ... (from p2)

P2.5-M project grant, was received by Mayor Michelle Marie Denise Rabat; Nasipit, Agusan del Norte for agro-forestry project. The award, along with its prize of a P1.5-M project grant, was received by Mayor Roscoe Democrito Plaza; Roseller T. Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay for fish sanctuary management. The award, along with its prize of a P1.5-M project grant, and a special citation for rural infrastructure implementation, was received by Mayor Michael A. Piodena; Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat for mangrove rehabilitation., The award, along with its prize of a P1.5-M project grant, was received by Mayor Rolando P. Garcia; Libungan, North Cotabato special citation for overall sustainable CFAD management. The award was received by Mayor Manuel T. de la Cerna; and Doyos Eastern Coast Fishermen Consumers Cooperative, of Carrascal, Surigao del Sur as the best performing PO implementing a CFAD project. The award, along with a P1-M project grant, was received by chairperson Tito T. Garcia. Secretary Alcala said the DAMRDP has to date earmarked a total of P6.3 billion for 4,320 infrastructure, livelihood, and natural resources management projects, benefiting more than 125,000 POs, LGUs, and farming and fishing families in 225 cities and towns, across 26 Mindanao provinces. Of the total, the infrastructure component got the biggest allotment of P4.885 billion (B) for 514 infrastructure projects that included 386 farm-to-market roads, 29 bridges, 31 communal irrigation systems, 51 potable water supply, and 17 solar dryers with warehouses. The DA-MRDP also allotted P1.26 B for 3,716 CFAD agrifishery proj ects, benefiting 124,816 households. Some 90 natural resources management projects, worth P167.9 million (M), were also funded. These include mangrove rehabilitation, agro-forestry, fish sanctuary and riverbank stabilization projects. The DA-MRDP also helped packaged 1,929 Barangay Development Plans (BDPs) that are used in project prioritization and approval. (DA-MRDP and DA Info.
Service)

Phl, Kuwait firm up trade of bananas, fancy rice. Secre-

tary Alcala and Kuwaiti Ambassador Waleed Amad Al-Kandari discuss increased trade of farm products, particularly bananas and basmati rice, during the latters May 17, 2012 visit at the DA Central Office in Quezon City. Ambassador Al-Kandari said Kuwait will continue to buy fresh Philippine bananas, and in fact a Kuwaiti company which invested in a Davao banana farm plans to expand its hectarage to satisfy increasing demand. Secretary Alcala also offered to export to Kuwait fancy, aromatic rice like Basmati, which the Philippines will soon produce. The DA is eyeing some 6,000 hectares in Compostela Valley, in Mindanao, to develop as a possible production area for fancy and upland rice varieities and other high value crops.

Navotas ...

(from p1)

P35-M from DA...(from p3)

them needed agri-fishery infrastructure, livelihood and capacity-building projects, and other support services. The CPRDP is patterned after the WB-funded Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP. Unlike the MRDP which follows a 50-40-10 counterparting scheme from WB, DA and the LGUs, respectively, the CPRDP proposes to adopt an 80-20 scheme, where the DA and the LGUs will each shoulder 10% of the project cost, and the balance by the program funds. Among the CPRDP projects that will be undertaken are the construction of FMRs, ports, irrigation and potable water systems, and postharvest and marketing facilities. Secretary Alcala urged Governor Fua and other Siquijor local government officials to register as soon as the CPRDP is approved for funding by the World Bank. (Adora Rodriguez, DA Info.
Service)

system and breakwater; construction of wharf landing, dredging of harbor basin, and provision of an area for ship repair and other agri-fishery enterprises; and provision of new facilities like cold storage system, conveyors, fish sorting areas, and waste water treatment plant. Navotas fish port is the countrys biggest and oldest fish port in the country. It began operations in 1977. An average of 380 metric tons of various fish species is unloaded and traded daily at the port. To finance the project, the government will counterpart P137 million, and seek a loan worth P2.56 billion from the China Export-Import Bank. Once the port is renovated, fish unloading and trading would increase by 60 percent from the current annual average of 131,934 metric tons (MT) to 210,806 MT by 2015; and postharvest losses would be reduced considerably, with the new ports faster sorting, delivery, transport systems, and availability of cold storage facilities. The port would directly benefit 7,500 fisherfolk, 4,400 fisherybased enterprises and 2,335 fishing vessels. It would also create new jobs for 30,900 individuals during the construction and operational phases. Newly-appointed PFDA General Manager Eduardo M. Chu said the NFPC project is a big

challenge, and acknowledged the efforts of past DA and PFDA administrations in preparing the projects groundwork. He said the benefits will not be confined among the NFPC clients, but more importantly redound to fish consumers in the National Capital Region (NCR) as 80% of the regions fish supply comes from Navotas. (DA Information Service & PFDA)

May 2012

11

DA allots P74-M irrigation, agri projects in CamNorte

The Department of Agriculture is investing an additional P74 million (M) in Camarines Norte to further increase crop production and augment the incomes of farmers and other ruralfolk. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said the bulk of the fund or P60-M will be used to construct and rehabilitate various irrigation projects, and P13.7-M worth of assistance that include farm machinery, planting materials, fishing paraphernalia, potable water system, and start-up capital for livelihood projects. He made the commitment during his two-day visit (May 4-5, 2012) in Daet and other towns in Camarines Norte, where he inaugurated and visited several agricultural projects, and dialogued with 1,000 farmers, fisherfolk, local government officials, and other agriculture and fishery stakeholders. Secretary Alcala also provided two hand tractors with trailers, two units of mechanical dryers, and a seed cleaner to irrigators associations and farmers groups during a farmers forum at the provincial capitol. Hundreds of seedlings of pili, rambutan and jackfruit were also distributed to upland farmers. The DA through the Bureau of

Secretary Alcala helps load Queen pineapples and other farm produce on a tramline carriage, in Matacong, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Camarines Norte. The tramline system, worth P1.6 million, will benefit 120 upland farm families. It greatly reduces transport time from two hours to only six minutes, and enables farmers to save up to 60 percent on hauling and transport costs. It was funded by the DA through the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech). Joining him are Camarines Norte Governor Edgar Tallado (3rd from right) and former Representative Liwayway Vinzons Chato. (Photo by DA Region 5 Info Div.)
Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 5 also provided funds for aquasilviculture and seaweed projects, mangrove rehabilitation and production of mangrove propagules, and establishment of community multipurpose fish hatchery. In addition, the DA has committed to provide an additional P5-M fund to repair and improve the Alawihao Dam, which serves as the only source of water supply in the municipality of Daet. The DA chief also inaugurated a P1.6-M tramline system in Barangay Matacong, town of San Lorenzo Ruiz, reducing the transport of various agricultural products from upland farms to the nearest market, from two hours to only six minutes. The tramline will benefit 120 farm families in Matacong, who will save on hauling and transport costs by as much as 60 percent, Secretary Alcala said. He also instructed DA Region V Director Jose Dayao to allot funds to construct access farmto-market roads from the tramline station to the nearest municipal road. This will enable Matacong farmers and ruralfolk to benefit most from the tramline facility,Secretary Alcala said. While in Camarines Norte, he also inspected other projects, and dialogued with beneficiaries and local officials that included the officers and members of the Basud Coconut and Pineapple Cooperative (BACOPICO) in Basud, and the Labo Multipurpose Cooperative (MPC) in the town of Labo. BACOPICO is into processing of coco husk into coir, while Labo MPC transforms queen pineapple leaves and fruits into fiber and packed juices, respectively. Secretary Alcalas visit was capped by a forum at the Camarines Norte Sports Complex, where he dialogued with 700 farmers, fisherfolk, local government officials and other stakeholders. During the forum, he raffled off farm inputs and implements to lucky attendees. In his concluding message, Secretary Alcala urged farmers to be proud of their noble work, saying: Kung wala po kayo, kahit yung mga nasa Forbes Park ay magugutom. Kaya sa susunod na tanungin kayo kung ano ang hanapbuhay nyo, ang sasabihin nyo: Magsasaka, bakit? (Emily B. Bordado, DA
Region 5 Info Div.)

DA-NIA to pursue P1.5-B irrigation projects in Davao Region. Secretary Alcala (3rd from left)

said the DA through the National Irrigation Administration (DA-NIA) will undertake several projects in Davao this year and in 2013, totaling P1.5 billion, that would irrigate an additional 8,250 hectares, and further increase the regions palay production and rice sufficiency level. He made the commitment at a special board meeting of the Davao Integrated Development Program (DIDP), composed of four Davao provinces and six cities, and chaired by Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario (left). Photo shows Secretary Alcala receiving a plaque appreciation after the DIDP board meeting, attended by Governors Corazon Malanyaon (Davao Oriental) and Arturo Uy (Compostela Valley), and City Mayors Rey Uy (Tagum), Jose Silvosa (Panabo), Michelle Rabat (Mati), and Joseph Peas (Digos). Not shown are other DIDP board members Davao del Sur Governor Douglas Cagas, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, and Samal Mayor Aniano Antalan.