Apayao: A total of 175 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in the province of Apayao have benefitted from the PHP3.3 million worth of farm machinery and equipment from the Department of Agrarian Reform. The machinery is expected to boost productivity and enhance the livelihood of farmers who are members of six agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs) across Apayao.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) announced that the farm machinery and equipment (FME) provided are designed to empower farmers with modern technology. Gilbert Galut, chairman of the Cajoma Multipurpose Cooperative (CAJOMA MPC) in Pudtol, one of the ARBOs, expressed gratitude to DAR for supporting the farming community. He highlighted that the equipment would significantly impact agricultural productivity and efficiency for farmer-members.
Provincial Agrarian Reform Program officer Penelope de Ausen stated that the initiative is part of DAR’s Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Program (CRFPSP). This program promotes modern farming technologies, climate-smart practices, and essential skills training to ensure sustainable agricultural production. De Ausen noted that the ARBOs in Apayao are now reaping the rewards of their hard work and dedication.
The range of FMEs distributed includes heavy-duty hand tractors, tractors with rotavators, tractor-mounted corn seeders with trailers, standalone corn seeders, water pumps, knapsack sprayers, rotary tillers, and brush tillers. These advanced tools aim to mechanize farming operations, reduce physical labor, and increase productivity for ARBs.
In addition to CAJOMA MPC, other ARBOs that received the FMEs include the Sta. Lina ARB Association Inc. (STARBA) and Cagandungan Marag Valley ARB Association Inc. (CAMAVARBA) of Luna; Mallig Upland Farmers Association, Inc. (MUFA) of Flora; Guina-ang Community Development Agriculture Cooperative (GUICOMDA); and Mawigue Proper Farmers Association, Inc. (MPFA) of Conner.
DAR emphasized that the distribution aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to uplift the lives of Filipino farmers, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting agricultural development in the region.
