Northern Samar: The province of Northern Samar is seeking PHP1.2 billion in funding to support a range of initiatives aimed at modernizing its agriculture and fishery sectors over the next six years. Provincial Agriculture Officer Jose Luis Acompa±ado announced that the funding would be sourced from the provincial government (50%), the national government (40%), and the private sector (10%).

According to Philippines News Agency, the proposed budget allocation includes PHP535 million for crop production and marketing enhancement, PHP286.55 million for livestock and poultry production and marketing enhancement, and PHP373 million for fishery industry development. These initiatives are part of the Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Modernization Plan (PAFMP) 2024-2030, which has been approved by Northern Samar Provincial Board members following comprehensive discussions and reviews.

Acompa±ado stated that PAFMP 2024-2030 represents a crucial advancement for Northern Samar, providing a guiding framework to achieve agricultural sustainability and economic growth. The plan encompasses the construction and rehabilitation of agricultural facilities, development of irrigation systems, improvement of farm access roads, and procurement and distribution of farm machinery and equipment. It also includes adaptive research, demonstration projects, and training programs.

The modernization plan aims to introduce new technologies, enhance resource management, and optimize production systems. It seeks to address vulnerabilities in food production, promote self-sufficiency, increase the competitiveness of local produce, create jobs, and attract investments in the agricultural sector. Additionally, it targets mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts and extreme weather events while improving access to better tools, training, markets, and infrastructure.