In a strategic move to enhance banana and pineapple cultivation in Region 2, Cagayan Valley, the Department of Agriculture (DA) allocated PHP1.9 million in agricultural inputs to eleven farming cooperatives and associations (FCAs) in the region. The distribution happened during a technical briefing at the Cagayan Valley Research Center, located in Ilagan, Isabela.
Ferdinand Cortez, public relations specialist at DA-2, indicated the event, occurring on July 16, targeted "upscaling banana and pineapple production in the region." The provided resources included organic fertilizers, pallets, plastic crates, and bagging materials. The FCAs received training on contemporary cultivation practices, pest management, and value-adding processes to extend marketability and product quality.
DA-2 technical director Roberto Busania highlighted the role of cooperativism and processing in boosting farmer income. Carol Albay, focal person for the DA-High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), detailed the current plantation statistics, noting areas under saba banana and pineapple cultivation stand at 16,348 hectares and 1,355.07 hectares, with sufficiency levels reaching 389.23% and 468.81% respectively. "We can yield more in those areas if we are mindful of pest management, proper cultivation, and technology and processing," Albay added.
Among the benefiting FCAs were: Bical Baliuag Farmers Association (Cagayan) and Caviteno Isabelino Multi-Purpose Coop. (Isabela) for banana, and Diora-Zinungan Pineapple Growers Association (Cagayan) for pineapple. The initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s agenda for a modern, sustainable, and market-driven agricultural sector.
Source: The Manila Times
