LOOK: The Regional Management Committee convened today at the Office of the National Irrigation and Administration (NIA) 12 in Koronadal City to address pressing concerns in the agriculture sector across Region 12.
The meeting, attended by key stakeholders, focused on resolving issues raised in previous sessions and formulating solutions. A major part of the agenda was the presentation by the Department of Agriculture (DA) 12, which detailed the Rice Program budget and allocation for the region. Status of harvested hybrid rice seeds for distribution was also presented by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) while the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) 12 outlined water distribution plans that correspond to the planting calendars of irrigated farm areas.
In addition, Dr. Neil Doton, the OIC-Chief of the DA Regulatory Division, provided an update on the African Swine Fever (ASF) situation affecting several municipalities in Region 12. Despite the challenges posed by ASF, the DA-Livestock Program has allocated indemnification funds to support hog raisers affected by the virus.
The meeting was a significant platform for discussing the challenges facing the agriculture sector and identifying ways to support farmers in the region. With the insights and plans shared during the meeting, the committee aims to strengthen efforts toward achieving food resilience in the country.