The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office (DA-RFO) XII has officially turned over a range of agricultural infrastructure projects valued at over PhP21.4 million, aimed at enhancing the agricultural sector in the region. These projects include warehouse facilities and solar-powered irrigation systems (SPIS) designed to improve storage, irrigation, and overall operational efficiency.
“These projects reflect DA-RFO XII’s ongoing commitment to improving the agricultural sector through strategic investments in infrastructure,” said DA-RFO XII Regional Executive Director Roberto T. Perales. “By providing essential storage and irrigation systems, we aim to empower farmers, boost productivity, and promote sustainable agricultural practices throughout Region XII,” he added.
On February 18, 2025, DA- RFO XII officially turned over a warehouse facility worth PhP6.2 million to Kisandal Multipurpose Cooperative in Brgy. Liboo, M’lang, Cotabato. Managed by Kisandal MPC, this facility will significantly improve post-harvest handling and storage of local farmers, ensuring better accessibility and long-term benefits for the region’s agricultural community.
In addition, two more warehouse facilities, valued at over PhP11 million, were handed over to farmers’ associations in Norala, South Cotabato, further strengthening the region’s rice sector. The first facility, worth PhP6.2 million, was awarded to Norala Seed Growers Association, while the second, valued at PhP4.8 million, was given to San Jose Norala Communal Irrigators Association.
The DA-RFO XII also extended support for farmers by installing SPIS projects to improve water accessibility for high-value crop and corn farmers. On February 20, 2025, a PhP1.3 million SPIS was handed over to Kibang Multi-Purpose Cooperative at Sitio Kibang, Brgy. Ned, Lake Sebu. This system covers over 40 hectares of farmlands, benefiting more than 20 farm owners who grow bell pepper, tomato, and cabbage. The other SPIS, valued at PhP2.9 million, was turned over on February 26, 2025 in Brgy. Magsaysay, Polomolok, South Cotabato, benefiting Creek Magsaysay Polomolok Communal Irrigators Association. These projects aim to further enhance irrigation systems in the region, providing farmers with more sustainable and efficient ways to manage their water resources.
With improved storage, irrigation, and access to modern farming technologies, local farmers are poised to increase production by reducing post-harvest loses, thereby ultimately contributing to the farmers income, uplift their lives and contributes to the overall economic growth performance of the region. (Cleofe Lyn Lagdamen)