Vol. XXV No.

10

A monthly publication of the Department of Agriculture

October 2010

Japan grants DA-BAS P60-M for IT project

The Government of Japan through its Official Development Assistance recently approved a P60.69-million(M) project, called Enhancing Farmers Capacity to Access, Analyze and Utilize Statistical Information, under the Japan Food Security Project for Underprivileged Farmers, (formerly known as the 2KR program). The project will be implemented by the Department of Agriculture through its Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (DABAS). It aims to improve farmers productivity, efficiency and income through the institutionalization of improved and sustainable capacities on operational and financial farm management and planning. These will be achieved by setting up farmer-based agribusiness information service
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LBP allots P50-B for food program

The Department of Agriculture, Department of Finance, and the Land Bank of the Philippines launched a food supply chain financing program in support of the governments thrusts of attaining food self-sufficiency and increasing agricultural productivity. An initial P50-billion(B) is allotted that will be extended by the Land Bank to prospective farmers and fishers cooperatives, and agribusiness enterprises. The fund may be increased depending on the requirements of the market and the industry. The program will finance crop, livestock and fishery production, working capital and acquisition of processing and other fixed assets needed to increase agricultural productivity and improve efficiency in the food system. Prospective program borrowers include farmers, fisherfolk, service providers, consolidators, processors and other market players; market linkages between ag
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President Benigno S. Aquino III (right) and Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (2nd from left) lead a ceremonial corn harvest during the 7th National Corn Congress, in Reina Mercedes, Isabela, where the President inaugurated a P500-million corn processing center. Also shown are DA asst. secretary and national rice and corn program coordinator Dennis Araullo (left) and PhilMaize President Roger Navarro (2nd from right).

DA launches KAANIB President Aquino opens P500-M coco program Isabela corn processing plant
The Department of Agriculture launched on October 9 a sustainable coconut production and livelihood program, dubbed as Kasaganaan sa Niyugan ay Kaunlaran ng Bayanor KAANIB. Representing agriculture secretary Proceso J. Alcala, asst. sec. for field operations Edilberto de Luna launched KAANIB in Tupi, South Cotabato. To be implemented in nine other pilot sites nationwide, the program aims to increase coconut productivity and farmers incomes, and thus uplift them from poverty. It also aims to generate additional employment in the 10 pilot sites. In addition to Barangay Palian in Tupi, the nine other sites are: in Luzon - Happy Valley, Roxas, President Aquino started his post-100 days in office, on October 8, by visiting Reina Mercedes town in Isabela where he led the inauguration of a P500-million corn processing plant, touted as the biggest in Southeast Asia. The President was accompanied by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, DA asst. secretary Dennis Araullo, Isabela Gov. Faustino Dy III, Dr. Alfonso Uy, chairman of Mindanao Grains Processing Co., Roger Navarro, president of Philippine Maize Federation Inc., other DA and provincial officials, and farmer-leaders. The plant is a joint initiative of Mindanao Grains and Phil. Maize. (Pls turn to p4) President Aquino thanked Dr. Uy and Mr. Navarro, and others involved in the project. This would surely help us in improving the living conditions of our corn farmers and the (countrys) corn industry in general, said President Aquino, who delivered his message entirely in Filipino. He added that the corn industry plays a crucial role in pumppriming the economy. The facility is expected to further boost corn production in Isabela, currently the countrys top producer. Dr. Uy said they will buy cornon-the-cob from farmers at an agreed price, of up to 100,000 metric tons at any given time,
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Agri damage tops P11.5-B

DA-PCIC to pay farmers P161-M crop insurance

The Department of Agriculture through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (DA-PCIC) will pay P161.4 million(M) in indemnities to 17,200 farmers whose insured crops were damaged by typhoon Juan. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said the DA will also provide farmers whose rice crops were totally damaged with an initial one bag (40 kilos) of certified palay seeds per hectare. Typhoon Juan (international name: Megi)which cut across Isabela, Cordiallera and Pangasinan October 18
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Editorial

Gutom
Hindi nagbabago ang estado ng mahihirap: Gutom pa rin sila. Kulang na kulang ang kanilang kinakain, lalo na sa sustansya. Mula sa apat na milyong pamilya noong panahon ni dating Pangulong Arroyo, bumaba sa tatlong milyong pamilya na lamang o 15.9% ng buong populasyon ng bansa ang tinatayang nagugutom nakaramdam ng involuntary hunger o walang makain kahit isang beses sa loob ng nakaraang tatlong buwan ayon sa survey ng Social Weather Station (SWS) nitong Setyembre 2010. Bukod sa bahay at edukasyon, gutom ang pinakamalaking problema ng mga pamilyang Pilipino, sa kalunsuran man o kanayunan. Ang isa pang malaking problema ay kung sino pa ang walang trabaho o maliit ang kinikita, sila pa ang mas maraming anak. Hindi lang sa sapat na pagkain, ang dapat na tanong ay kung may hanap-buhay na maayos para may maibili ng kakainin. Nakakatuwa naman at ang mga problemang ito ang napagtutuunan ng administrasyong Aquino ngayon, lalo na ang programang conditional cash transfer at usapin tungkol sa Reproductive Health Bill. Ang dalawang isyung ito, sa aming pananaw, ay magkakabit at inaasahang makakatulong upang maibsan ang paghihirap ng ating mga kababayang mahihirap. Ang usapin tungkol sa pagkontrol ng populasyon ay kaugnay din sa produksyon ng pagkain. Kasama na rito ang usapin tungkol sa mga lupaing sakahan at conversion. Ganumpaman, ang papel ng Department of Agriculture ay tiyakin na may sapat at abot-kayang pagkain sa hapag-kainan ng bawat pamilyang Filipino. Kaya naman patuloy tayong nagpupursigi upang palawigin pa ang irigasyon, at pagpapatayo ng post-harvest facilities at pamilihan, at pagsasagawa ng marami pang kalsada sa kanayunan. Lahat ng ito ay nakatuon upang makamit natin ang kasapatan sa pagkain, lalunglalo na sa bigas sa 2013. Tama lamang at naglagay ng deadline si Pangulong Noynoy Aquino at Kalihim Procy Alcala, para magtrabaho at mag-focus nang mabuti ang lahat. At hindi lamang tayo sa DA ang dapat abala, kung hindi ang iba pa nating kasangga sa sektor ng sakahan at pangisdaan ang mga samahan ng mga magsasaka at mangingisda, mga pinunong-lokal, NGOs, at pribadong sektor. Kaya naman akmang-akma ang tema ng World Food Day (WFD) selebrasyon nitong taon: United Against Hunger. Kasama natin sa paggunita ng WFD ang ibat-ibang bansa sa buong daigdig, sa pangunguna ng Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Tinataya ng FAO na isang bilyong tao, bata at matatanda, ang nagugutom sa buong mundo. At naway sa ating samasamang pagtutulungan, patuloy nating mabawasan ang bilang ng mga pamilyang Pinoy na nagugutom. Kaya naman ating panindigan ang ating sinumpaang WFD Pledge: Gamit ang aming kasanayan, talino at panahon, kamiy maghahatid ng walanghumpay na tulong upang maitaas ang ani ng mga sakahan at pangisdaan, nang may pag-iingat sa kalikasan at Inang-Bayan, At patuloy na maiangat ang kabuhayan at kita ng lahat na umaasa sa pagsasaka at pangingisda, at makapag-hatid ng sapat at ligtas na pagkain para sa lahat.

Thai Food Firm Eyes Investing in the Philippines. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (left) thanks Thailand Ambassador to the Philippines Kulkumut Singhara Na Ayudhaya during the latters recent courtesy call at the DA central office in Quezon City. Ambassador Ayudhaya was joined by top officials of Chareon Pokphand Foods (CPF), Thailands leading agro-industrial and food conglomerate, who expressed keen interest in investing in the country particularly on feedmill, poultry and piggery operations. Sec. Alcala immediately tasked concerned DA officials and agencies to assist CPF officials to realize their planned investment. Last year, total trade between the Philippines and Thailand amounted to US$3.7 billion. The countrys top agricultural exports to Thailand include tuna, cigars and cigarettes, and cereal products, while top agricultural imports include Thai rice, corn seeds and cassava starch or tapioca.

Pres. Aquino ...

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and then dry and mill these into quality grains. Dr. Uy is also the national president of the Federation of FilipinoChinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry. He said similar state-of-the-art corn post-harvest facilities will also be put up in other corn-producing areas in Isabela such as Tumauini and Solana, and in Cagayan.

Teach farmers modern ways

While in Isabela, President Aquino also graced the closing ceremony of the three-day 7th Corn National Congress partici-

pated in by corn farmers from all over the country. He urged the DA and all state universities and colleges (SUCs) to help agriculture professionals and farmers use modern technology to produce high quality seeds. He also encouraged the private sector and NGOs to support governments effort to develop the agriculture sector, especially the corn industry. Ang ating pagtutulungan po ang magiging puhunan natin upang matiyak ang pangmatagalang food security, at mas matatag na ekonomiya ng bansa, the President said. He expects the 7th corn con(Pls turn to p11)

is published monthly by the Department of Agriculture Information Service, Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City. Tel. nos. 9288741 loc 2148, 2150, 2155, 2156 or 2184; 9204080 or tel/fax 9280588. This issue is available in PDF file. For copies, please send requests via email: da_afis@yahoo.com.

Editor-In-Chief : Noel O. Reyes Associate Editors: Karenina Salazar & Cheryl C. Suarez Writers: Adora D. Rodriguez, Jo Anne Grace B. Pera, Arlhene S. Carro, Bethzaida Bustamante, Mc. Bien Saint Garcia, Jay Ilagan, Catherine Nanta Contributors: DA-RFU Info Officers, Public Info Officers and Staff of DA Bureaus, Attached Agencies & Corporations, Foreign-Assisted Projects Photographers: Jose Lucas, Alan Jay Jacalan, & Kathrino Resurreccion Lay-out Artist: Bethzaida Bustamante Printing & Circulation: Teresita Abejar & PCES Staff

Korea grants RP $790,000 corn project in Isabela

The Korean government is granting the Department of Agriculture $790,000 to fund a corn development project in Isabela. The project will address the needs for agricultural and rural development through increased agricultural output and enhanced local community capacity, DA Undersecretary Berna RomuloPuyat said. She signed on October 27, 2010 the projects Records for Discussion, along with Dr. Kim Yong-Taek, team leader of the Korea Rural Economic Institute (KREI). The project will be implemented by the DAs Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech). It entails the establishment of a village-type corn center that will cover two seasons, using post production and bulk handling systems and facilities from Korea; two multi-purpose warehouses, as machinery shed and grain storage; and a community center for training and other project-related

P50-billion food supply chain financing program. Secretary Alcala (seated, 1st from left), Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima (middle) and Land Bank of the Philippines president Gilda Pico join hands as they launch a Food Supply Chain Program, where an initial P50 billion will be lent to farmers and fisherfolks cooperatives, and agribusiness enterprises, in support of President Aquinos twin thrust of attaining food self-sufficiency, and increasing farmers and fisherfoks productivity and incomes. Nine enterprises and cooperatives (their respective president, CEO, and chairperson shown at the background) have initially qualified under the program for integrated corn production and hog fattening, integrated broiler production, banana production for local and export markets, oil palm production and palm oil refining, vegetable production, and fish production for local and export markets.
activities. A three-hectare pilot area will be used for the project, of which two hectares will serve as production site, and the rest as site for the facilities. Farmer-participants will be given inputs such as seeds, fertilizers and pesticides for two croppings. Korean technical experts will supervise and provide necessary guidance and advice to ensure the success of the project.

Senior citizens enjoy more goods at 5% discount

Senior citizens can now buy more food and basic items at five percent (%) discount, as provided for under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 or Republic Act No. 9994. Agriculture Secretary Proceso and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo signed a joint DA-DTI administrative order, October 15, 2010, to implement the provisions of RA 9994. More than 20 items were added in the original list under the old law (RA 9257 of 2003), which previously covered basic items like rice, corn, fresh and dried fish, fresh eggs, fresh vegetables, root crops, salt, firewood, charcoal, and candles. The additional prime commodities under RA 9994 are fresh fruits, flour, dairy products, onions, garlic, geriatric diapers, herbicides; poultry, swine, and cattle feed; veterinary products for poultry, swine and cattle; construction materials such as nipa shingles, plyboards, nails, steel wires, electrical supplies, light bulbs, and batteries. Each senior citizen can enjoy the 5% discount on said food and prime commodities, which however are not exempted from the value-added tax (VAT). Each senior citizen is alloted a purchase of P1,300 per week, and the entire amount should be spent on at least four items, and
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LBP allots ...

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Organic Act IRR is now with Congress for approval. Secretary Alcala (2nd from left) shows his endorsement letter of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Organic Act of 2010 (RA 10068) as approved by the National Organic Agriculture Board (NOAB) for transmittal to the Congressional Oversight Committee on Agricultural and Fisheries Modernization (COCAFM). RA 10068 aims to promote, propagate, and further develop organic farming practices and technologies in the Philippines. Others in photo (from left) are: DA-BAFPS director Dr. Gilberto Layese, Jose Pepito of Nationwide Association of Consumers, Inc., Roland Cabigas of La Liga Policy Institute, DA Undersecretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, Dr. Rodolfo Ilao of DOST-PCARRD, Anna Liza F. Bonagua of DILG-Bureau of Local Government, and Leilani Limpin of Organic Certification Center of the Philippines.

ricultural producers and processors; and capacity-building to strengthen farmers cooperatives. Initial projects identified include integrated corn production and hog fattening to be undertaken by Biotech Farms, Inc., Marcela Farms, Inc., Sorosoro Development Coop., Limcoma Multi-Purpose Coop. and Catmon MultiPurpose Coop. Altogether, the proponents require an investment of at least P550 million(M), which is expected to benefit more than 3,000 corn farmers and 8,000 hog farmers. Another project involves integrated broiler production of Anakciano, Inc., which requires P242.5-M for broiler and corn production, with more than 1,000 contract growers expected to participate. A third project is banana production and export, which needs P940 million, of Sagrex Food Corporation and Fermon Corporation. For oil palm production and palm oil refining, of Agumil Philippines, Inc., P1.5-B is required. The project will benefit more than 6,000 farmers and workers. Agrinurture, Inc. will engage in vegetable production for local and export markets. It requires an initial P20 million. Other projects are fish production of Sta. Cruz Seafoods, General Tuna Corp/Century Pacific Group and APAMI, requiring P45M. (LandBank)

October 2010

SPJA swears in new officials

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala has sworn in two batches of new and reappointed officials for September and October with total of 45 officials of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and other DA bureaus and attached agencies, who were recently appointed by President Benigno S. Aquino III. Sec. Alcala said they will form part of the DA team who will contribute their respective share to serving the small farmers and fisherfolk, and help attain the food self-sufficiency and security goals of the Aquino administration. I expect them to render their expertise in their respective fields and assist the Aquino government in achieving our major goals of uplifting the lives of small farmers and fisherfolk, attaining selfsufficiency in rice, white corn and other basic commodities, and producing sufficient and affordable food for the entire nation, the DA chief noted. Of the 45 officials, 20 are new, while 25 are re-appointees. Six of them are DA regional directors (RDs); seven, head of bureaus and attached agencies; five, DAOffice of the Secretary (OSEC) directors; 22 assistant DA-RDs, agency deputies, and BFAR regional director; and five board members of the DA-Philippine Coconut Authority. Lealyn Abellanosa-Ramos, Region 10 (re-appointee) Pedro Jerry D. Baliang, Region 3 Abelardo R. Bragas, Region 4-A Lucrecio R. Alviar, Jr., Cordillera Administrative Region Heads of Bureaus and Attached Agencies: Malcolm I. Sarmiento, Jr., Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (re-appointee) Efren Nuestro, Director, Bureau of Animal Industry (re-appointee) Jovy C. Bernabe, President, Phil. Crop Insurance Corp. (reappointee) Jane C. Bacayo, Exec. Director, National Meat Inspection Service Grace J. Cenas, Administrator, National Dairy Authority Edgardo D. Zaragoza, Administrator, National Tobacco Administration Manuel R. Jarmin, Exec. Director, Livestock Development Council (LDC)

DA-OSEC Directors: Ophelia D. Agawin, finance service (re-appointee) Agnes Catherine T. Miranda, planning service (re-appointee) Gary Glenn B. Fantastico, information technology center for DA Regional Directors (RDs): agriculture and fisheries (ITCAF) Jose V. Dayao, Region 5 Noel O. Reyes, information (re-appointee) service (AFIS) Larry P. Nacionales, Region Rudy Santos, administra6 (re-appointee) tive service

. .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DA assistant RDs, attached agency deputies, and BFAR regional directors: Crispulo G. Bautista, Region 1 (re-appointee) Paz L. Mones, Region 1 (reappointee) Bernadette F. San Juan, Region 4-A Edgar Madrid, Region 5 (reappointee) Marilyn Sta. Catalina, Region 5 Constancio C. Maghanoy Jr. DA Region 10 (re-appointee) Engr. Eduardo M. Gonzales DA Region 3 (re-appointee) Felix G. Valenzuela, deputy exec. dir. (DED), LDC Noel A. Juliano, DED, National Agriculture and Fishery Council Augusto L. Canlas, DED, Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority Antonio Galvez, senior deputy administrator, NIA (re-appointee) Elizabeth R. Tortosa, deputy administrator, Fiber Industry Development Authority (FIDA) (reappointee) Josephine B. Regalado , deputy administrator, (FIDA) (reappointee)

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Drusila Esther E. Bayate, BFAR regional director, Region 6 (re-appointee) Andres M. Bojos, BFAR regional director, Region 7 (re-appointee) Juan D. Abaledejo, BFAR regional director, Region 8 (reappointee) Ahadulla S. Sajili, Al-Haj, BFAR regional director, Region 9 (re-appointee) Dennis V. Del Socorro, BFAR regional director, Region 5 (re-appointee) vice Clemencio A. Reciproco Nerio G. Casil, BFAR regional director, Region 13 (re-appointee) Vicente Lasam, deputy administrator, (NTA) (re-appointee) Ricardo L. Cachuela Philippine Center for Post- Harvest Development and Mechanization (re-appointee) Dr. Felomino V. Mamuad Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) (re-appointee)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PCA Board Members: Oscar G. Garin Ponciano A. Batugal Cesar C. Villariba, Jr. Rafael P. Sarucam Marcos M. Dumandan Monkayo, Compostela Valley; Brgy. San Roque, Panaon, Misamis Oriental; and Limpapa in Zamboanga City. The program entails the formation of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and transform the members into village-level entrepreneurs, and not merely producers of coconut and copra. Thus, the DA through the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) will teach farmers and rural women villagelevel processing technologies so they could produce more valueadded quality coconut products and by-products. The DA will also provide the CBOs technical support and marketing assistance. The CBOs will be trained to establish and maintain their respective coconut nurseries so they can produce their own seedlings. Secondly, they will be taught to intercrop coconut with highvalue cash crops, and raise livestock, too, as additional income. The DAs Livestock Development Council will be tapped to help CBOs in their livestock project.
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DA launches ...

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Oriental Mindoro; Brgy. San Francisco, Tagkawayan, Quezon; and Brgy. San Rafael, Catilla, Sorsogon; In Visayas - Brgy. Quia-Anan, San Joaquin, Iloilo; Brgy. Campanga, Barili, Cebu; and Brgy. Burabod, Biliran, Biliran; and In Mindanao - Brgy. Upper Ulip,

Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Livestock, Davinio Catbagan (seated, 3rd from left) and Acting Executive Director of the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) Atty. Jane Bacayo (next to Catbagan) sign a Memorandum of Agreement on the Meat Establishment Improvement Program along with mayors of recipient municipalities on October 18, 2010. The MoA, which aims to strengthen counterparting between the National and Local Government, grants a total of P18-M for the rehabilitation and completion of locally operated slaughterhouses and poultry dressing plants. The activity is part of NMIS 38th Anniversary and the 18th Meat Safety Consciousness Week which runs from October 18-22. Also in photo are: (seated L-R) Hon. Madelaine Alfelor-Gazmen, Iriga, Camarines Sur; Hon. Alicia Paulican-Resus, Maramag, Bukidnon; Hon. Voltaire Anthony Villarosa, Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro, and Hon. Nerito L. Santos, Talavera, Nueva Ecija.

Messages

United against Hunger

My warmest greetings to the officials of the Department of Agriculture, the Food and Agriculture Organization, and the many other stakeholders of the agriculture and fisheries sector, on your celebration of the 30th World Food Day. Food security has gone beyond the production of sufficient food; its accessibility, affordability, and nutritional value have also come into play. We commend your departments efforts to address the needs of every Filipino family and to ensure that they have healthy and affordable food on their tables. As part of our administration, you are at the frontlines in our fight not only versus hunger, but also versus corruption and poverty. Always bear in mind that we are to promote the welfare of our people, to look after their interests, and to fulfill their mandate for transformation. Our administrations mandate symbolizes the peoples pressing desire for change. And as we work towards the realization of a changed and better nation, we continue to draw our strength from the people and from institutions like yours, who have expressed solidarity with our transformation agenda, and whom we are fortunate enough to have as allies in the quest for equitable progress. Rest assured that our administration will continue to serve under the banner of reform, transparency, and hope. May we all rally beneath this banner as we strive to stay on course in the straight and righteous path.

This years theme was chosen to recognize the efforts made in the fight against world hunger at national, regional and international levels. Uniting against hunger becomes real when state and civil society organizations and the private sector work in partnership at all levels to defeat hunger, extreme poverty and malnutrition. On October 16 2010, World Food Day enters its 30th year, and also marks the 65th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). In 2009, the critical threshold of one billion hungry people in the world was reached in part due to soaring food prices and the financial crisis, a tragic achievement in these modern days, according to FAO Director-General Jacques Diouf. On the eve of the hunger summit, Dr Diouf launched an online petition to reflect the moral outrage of the situation. The 1 billion hungry project reaches out to people through online social media to invite them to sign the anti-hunger petition at www.1billionhungry.org. On this World Food Day 2010, when there have never been so many hungry people in the world, let us reflect on the future. With willpower, courage and persistence and many players working together and helping each other more food can be produced, more sustainably, and get into the mouths of those who need it most. (FAO)

Benigno S. Aquino III President, Republic of the Philippines

As we commemorate this years World Food Day, and mark the 65th Anniversary of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, we are reminded that the fight against hunger rages on, and winning it requires the commitment of everyone, from the governments, policy makers, and stakeholders. Hence the celebration theme, United Against Hunger. The UN FAO estimates that one of every six individuals worldwide composed mostly of children and the old lack access to nutritious, safe and affordable food, under the combined effect of high food prices and the global financial meltdown. On the home front, a recent report by the UN and the Asian Development Bank revealed that the Philippines is faring badly in eradicating hunger, among the 21 sub-indicators of the socalled Millennium Development Goals. Kaya naman, pangunahin sa ating pagsisikap ang mai-angat ang bansa mula sa kahirapan at kagutuman. At itoy sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng katapatan at mabuting pamamalakad sa pamahalaan, lalo sa sektor ng agrikultura. Naniniwala tayo na ang tapat at bukas na paglilingkod ang tamang hakbang tungo sa layuning ihatid at ipadama ang kalinga ng Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka sa mga magsasaka, mangingisda at iba pang taga-nayon. Ang isang malakas na sektor ng agrikultura ay mahalaga para sa pagsugpo sa kahirapan at kagutuman sa bawat sulok ng bansa. Nawa y ang pagdiriwang na ito ay maging pagkakataon para sa higit na pagkakaisa ng bawat sektor na kalahok sa pagpapaunlad. Mabuhay!

The theme of this years World Food Day is United Against Hunger or in Filipino, Nagkakaisa Laban Sa Gutom, which was chosen to recognize the efforts made in the fight against world hunger at national, regional and international levels. Uniting against hunger becomes real when state and civil society organizations and the private sector work in partnership at all levels to defeat hunger, extreme poverty and malnutrition. FAO estimates that there are now almost 1 billion malnourished people in the world, which means that almost one/ sixth of all humanity is suffering from hunger. To reflect the moral outrage of this situation, the FAO Director General Jacques Diouf launched on November 2009 the 1 Billion Hungry project, an online anti-hunger petition, which works in synergy with this years WFD programme. The FAO recommends to have an agricultural revolution to feed the future and produce all that extra food. Through partnerships with governments, research institutes and universities, farmers associations and pressure groups, the UN system, civil society, and the private sector working together it can be done. On this World Food Day 2010, when there have never been so many hungry people in the world, let us reflect on the future. With willpower, courage and persistence and many players working together and helping each other more food can be produced, more sustainably, and get into the mouths of those who need it most. I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our gratitude to the Government of the Philippines for its commitment to the activities of FAO, and look forward to the further collaboration with the Government and Filipino people towards the achievement of food security. Maraming salamat po!

Proceso J. Alcala Secretary, Department of Agriculture

Kazuyuki Tsurumi FAO Representative in the Philippines

October 2010

Opening

National On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest, BSWM, Quezon City

Milkfeeding in Sariaya, Quezon

2010 World Food Day Pledge

Sa gitna ng patuloy na paglaki ng populasyon, pabagu-bagong panahon at klima at pagkaubos ng likas na yaman Kaming mga kawani ng Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka kasama ang mga magsasaka, mangingisda at iba pang katuwang sa larangan ng agrikultura at pangisdaan,

Candle lighting ceremony and reading of the 2010 WFD Pledge at the Quezon Memorial Circle

Regional On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest

Ay naninindigang itataguyod ang isang bansang malaya sa kagutuman at hirap, kung saan abot-kamay ang sapat at masustansyang pagkain para sa lahat, Gamit ang aming kasanayan, talino at panahon, kamiy maghahatid ng walang-humpay na tulong upang maitaas ang ani ng mga sakahan at pangisdaan, nang may pag-iingat sa kalikasan at Inang-Bayan, At patuloy na maiangat ang kabuhayan at kita ng lahat na umaasa sa pagsasaka at pangingisda, at makapag-hatid ng sapat at ligtas na pagkain para sa lahat. Sa pamamagitan ng programang Agri-Pinoy at iba pang makabuluhang proyekto at polisiya, sama-sama naming aabutin ang mga layunin ng Millenium Development Goals na maibsan ang kahirapan at kagutuman sa mga darating na taon. Kaya, sama-sama naming lalabanan ang kagutuman nang buong puso at walang pag-iimbot, tungo sa mas maunlad na Pilipinas. Sa adhikaing ito, patnubayan nawa kami ng Poong Maykapal. 7

2010 Theme: United Against Hunger

DA, FAO lead World Food Day celebration

The Department of Agriculture, in tandem with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, led this years celebration of the World Food Day (WFD) with the theme: United Against Hunger. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said this years theme is in consonance with President Aquinos goal of achieving food self-sufficiency and security in prime commodities, particularly rice, corn, fruits, vegetables, chicken, pork and fishery products. To achieve said goal, Alcala stressed that the DA needs the cooperation of all concerned sectors, particularly local government officials, private sector, farmers and fishers groups, NGOs, academe, and other government agencies. Kaya naman ako mismo ang nakikipagpulong sa mga lokal na opisyal, mga Gubernador, Punong Bayan at Kongresista, at mga magsasaka at mangingisda, upang pag-usapan ang mga paraan upang lalong mapalago ang produksyon at kita ng mga magsasaka at mangingisda, at maibsan ang kahirapan sa kanayunan, noted Alcala, who has visited to date seven regions since he assumed office in July 2010. Several activities for the weeklong WFD celebration were undertaken, starting off with a milk feeding program on October 11, spearheaded by the DAs National Dairy Authority (NDA), benefiting 50 students of Palcon Elementary School in Sariaya, Quezon. Simultaneously, Agriculture Undersecretary Antonio Fleta, chairman of the national WFD steering committee, and FAO Representatitve in the Philippines Mr. Kazuyuki Tsurumi, opened a photo and product exhibit, cum tiangge, at the DA lobby. The following day, a school vegetable gardening or Gulayan sa Paaralan project was launched at Aurora Elementary School, in Sta. Ana, Manila, led by the DAs Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). The students received from the DA-BPI packets of assorted vegetable seeds and garden tools for their project. The agency also conducted a lecture on urban gardening for students, teachers and parents. On October 13, a Pangisdaan Pangkabuhayan program was implemented by the DAs Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in two sites: first at Barangay San Roque, Sariaya, Quezon, where 20,000 propagules were planted in two hectares of mangrove; and in San Pedro, Laguna, where about 60,000 tilapia fingerlings were stocked in Yambo Lake. Simultaneously, the DA and FAO sponsored a national on-thespot poster-making contest at the DAs Bureau of Soils and Water Management convention hall, participated in by 17 regional contestants, mostly grade 6 elementary pupils. (Please see related story.)

DA Undersecretary Antonio Fleta (left) and Mr. Kazuyuki Tsurumi, FAO Rep. in the Philippines open the week-long WFD celebration.
The week-long WFD celebration culminated in a candle lighting ceremony and reading of the 2010 World Food Day Pledge at the Quezon City Memorial Circle, participated in by officials and staff of DA bureaus and attached agencies within Metro Manila, FAO and UN officials, and guests. Part of the program included the awarding of the winners of the Outstanding Rural Women for 2010 and the five national winners of the 2010 WFD on-the-spot poster making contest. The crowd was entertained by popular composer-singer Noel Cabangon.

Five pupils win poster contest

Five elementary pupils from Regions 2, 3, 6, 8 and Metro Manila (NCR) won this years national World Food Day (WFD) on-the-spot making contest, one of the highlights of the annual WFD celebration spearheaded by the DA and FAO, in cooperation with the Department of Education. They received their respective prize of P15,000 cash and plaque during the WFD culminating ceremonies at the Quezon City Memorial Circle, October 15. Their respective schools also received a plaque of appreciation. The five were chosen from 17 regional winners, who made their respective posters depicting the 2010 WFD theme, United against hunger, during an on-the-spot contest, October 13, at the DABureau of Soils and Water Management convention hall. They made use of various farm and fishery materials such as seeds of palay, corn, vegetables, and seashells as part of their poster design. They are: Cecille Gragasin of Quimalabasa Norte Elementary School, Isabela (Region 2); Joshua Noel Bonifacio, Sta. Monica Elem. School, Hagonoy, Bulacan (Region 3); Angelene Navarro of Ticud Elem. School, La Paz, Iloilo City (Region 6); Daryll Clark Castillo of Calbayog City SPED Center, (Region 8); and Trisha Reyes of St. Stephens High School, Manila. An all-expense, three-day educational tour within Metro Manila, Subic and Angono, Rizal was part of their prize, sponsored by the DAs National Agricultural and Fishery Council (NAFC). The WFD poster making contest was open to all Grade 6 elementary pupils enrolled in any public and DepED-accredited private elementary schools nationwide. Eliminations were done at the school, district, division, and regional levels. The five-man board of judges was chaired Dr. Cynthia Loza, dean of the University of Santo Tomas College of Fine Arts and Design. The other judges were: Architect Lorelie DC de Viana, acting dean, FEU-Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts; Leo Gerardo Leonardo, Philippine High School for the Arts, National Arts Center, Los Baos, Laguna; Orville D.R. Tiamson, freelance artist; and Christina Jade CJ de Silva, freelance artist, and former national winner of WFD poster making contest 10 years ago.

This years WFD poster winners are (from left): Cecille Gragasin of Isabela, Joshua Noel Bonifacio of Bulacan, Angelene Navarro of Iloilo City, Daryll Clark Castillo of Calbayog City, and Trisha Reyes of Manila.

Palawan farmer is nations best rural woman

Rice farmer and organic agriculture advocate Amelia Gresones of Aborlan, Palawan is this years national awardee under the search for 2010 Outstanding Rural Women. She was joined by Preciosa Maturan and Zenaida Mansiliohan as Visayas and Mindanao winners, respectively. The three were recognized October 15, in simple ceremonies in celebration of the World Rural Womens Day, at the DA-Bureau of Soils Water Management convention hall. They received their respective awards from DA undersecretary Berna Romula Puyat, who chairs the DA Gender and Development Focal System. Gresones has inspired women and men alike by uplifting the status of rice farming in Aborlan, where she also shared innovative approaches in vegetable production, using environmentfriendly and sustainable agriculture technologies. For her feat, she received a cash prize of P70,000 and a plaque of recognition. More importantly, she will represent the Philippines at the Womens World Summit Foundation, that will give her a chance to win the coveted Prize for Womens Creativity in Rural Life award. Ms. Maturan and Ms. Mansiliohan are likewise model

Top awardee, Amelia Gresones (4th from left) is shown with DA Undersecretary Berna Romulo Puyat (5th from left) and other 2010 Outstanding Rural Women, namely: Edita Dacuycuy (Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte), Beniflor Guittap (Centro, Sta. Ana, Cagayan), Gloria Gutlay (San Miguel, Bulacan), Yolanda Elbancol (Baco, Oriental Mindoro), Rocaiya Kasan (Tupi, South Cotabato), Wenita F. Espartero (Dujali, Davao del Norte), and Annie E. Sitjar (Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur).
rural women in their own right. Maturan has contributed her share in enhancing sugarcane production, conduct of community development projects, which altogether generated additional livelihood and employment for farm families and residents in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental. Mansiliohan has done her part in uplifting the socio-economic status of fellow ruralfolk in San Luis, Agusan del Sur. They both received P20,000 in cash and a plaque of recognition. The annual search for outstanding rural women is led by the Phil. Commission on Women through the inter-agency committee on rural women composed of the DA, DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and departments of environment and natural resources, agrarian reform, social welfare and development, health, labor and employment, interior and local government, National Anti-Poverty Commission, and Pambansang Koalisyon ng Kababaihan sa Kanayunan. The celebration of World Rural Womens Day started in September 1995, at a UN conference for women in Beijing, China. In the Philippines, the celebration started in 1997 with the issuance of Presidential Proclamation No. 1105, which recognizes and supports the multiple roles of Filipino rural women. It also seeks to create worldwide awareness on the crucial yet unrecognized roles they play. by a market survey to determine saleable coconut products and explore opportunities. The PCA and DA will link the CBOs with interested private firms and with the Department of Trade and Industry to help the CBOs in product packaging and export marketing. Each CBO member will be tasked to plant at least 15 seedlings per year for a period of three years to replace aging coconut palms to conserve and propagate high-value or highyielding varieties in the community, said De Luna. The KAANIB project will employ the farmer participatory approach where CBO members will decide on what crops to plant and farming technologies to practice.

DA launches ...

(from p4)

The DA's Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) celebrated its 47th fish conservation week with the theme, Fish is Life, at SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, featuring product and technolofy exhibits and livelihood seminars, and launch of a book, Field Guide on the Mangroves of the Philippines, funded by the Agencia Espaola Cooperacion International para el Desarollo (AECID). Shown with BFAR Dir. Sarmiento is book author Raul Roldan, who co-wrote the book with Jessica Muoz and Jose Razon III. With them are BFAR asst. dirs. Benjamin Tabios and Gil Adora. October 2010

De Luna said to ensure the sustainability of the livelihood projects, nothing will be provided for free, except the training and capacity-building activities that will be conducted by the ATI and PCA. He said the inputs to be used for each component should be repaid by the CBO participants through a microcredit system, which will serve as a revolving fund to support the income-generating activities and coconut seedling nurseries. The microcredit system will be managed by designated CBO officers. The project will be supported

UN taps Leah Salonga as goodwill ambassador

Popular Filipina singer and stage actress Lea Salonga was named by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization as Goodwill Ambassador, along with American actress Susan Sarandon, Italian actor Raoul Bova and Canadian singer Celine Dion. She received her appointment from FAO director general Jacques Diouf, October 16, during the World Food Day celebration at the FAO, in Rome. During the program, Lea performed John Lennons popular song, Imagine. I performed the song in the context of dreaming and imagining a world without hunger. Given that there are almost one billion people suffering from chronic hunger and malnutrition all over the world (many of whom are from the Philippines), singing it took a whole different meaning for me, said Salonga. Diouf said the four goodwill ambassadors had committed themselves to address the universal, humanitarian goals that underpin FAOs mission: to build a food-secure world for present and future generations. Apart from being a goodwill ambassador, Salonga will also act as advocate for the FAO-led Youth and UN Global Alliance initiative. There is work to be done in the effort to alleviate world hunger. Id like to focus on our country to see what solutions we can come up with, Lea said. If she had a chance to sit down with President Benigno Aquino, ending hunger in the country would be top on her agenda, Salonga said. Id love to pick the Presidents brains on how the government intends to solve this problem. On how we can perhaps keep farming communities intact to avoid mass migrations to the urban centers. On how to control the population (well have more to consume if we control how many mouths there are to feed). And on whats being done now, what will be done during his term and what are being started that can be continued after his term ends... sustainable programs that can be carried on by the next president, she said. Ending hunger is an advocacy that is particularly close to Salongas heart because her own mother, Ligaya, had suffered it. My mom was a small child during World War II. She told me that her older brothers had to scrounge around for food for the rest of the family, she said. I learned where her major survival skills came from, but more importantly, I learned of her resilience to live. Her mothers story continues to serve as inspiration in her life and now, in her work as UN goodwill ambassador. As a Filipino, a mother, a wife and a woman, I have a responsibility to join this fight against hun-

Philippine singer Lea Salonga accepts her appointment as FAO Goodwill Ambassador from FAO director general Jacques Diouf during the World Food Day ceremony, at FAO headquarters, in Rome.
(Photo by FAO/Giulio Napolitano)

ger. Its important because of my mother who knows what its like to be hungry, and for my daughter who I pray will never have to know, she said. As UN goodwill ambassador and in spreading FAOs message, I hope that no member of the future generation will have to go through this either, she said. She would like her four-yearold daughter Nicole to grow up aware of this pressing issue. I always remind her to be thankful for the food that we have and that we are lucky to have the food that we have, as there are kids her age that go without, every single day, she said. (Phil.
Daily Inquirer)

FAO News

Typhoon Juan victims, LGUs get NFA rice

The National Food Authority (NFA) has to date issued 7,532 bags of rice to government relief agencies (Philippine National Red Cross and the Department of Social Welfare and Development) and LGUs for distribution to typhoon Juan victims. NFA deputy administrator Pedro S. Hernando, Jr. said of the total, 3,922 bags went to Region 1; 2,981 bags to Region 2; 500 bags, NCR; and 129 bags, Oriental Mindoro. The recipients in Region 1 were those in Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Western Pangasinan. For Region 2, Isabela got the most NFA rice allocation, as typhoon Juan cut across the province, incurring huge losses in terms of infrastructure and crop damage. Kalinga, Quirino and Ifugao also received NFA rice for their respective typhoon victims. The NFA rice was either paid in cash or credit under a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the LGUs and relief agencies. Hernando allayed fears of possible rice shortage in regions affected by the typhoon. In Region 1, even after the typhoon, the NFA still has a total of 3 million bags in stock good for 56 days. For Region 2, the NFA has 1 million bags sufficient for 28 days. Hernando said overall the countrys rice inventory is still high at 51 days.

Senior citizens ...

(from p3)

Secretary Alcala (2nd from right) congratulates Director Jeffrey Willnow, of the US Dept. of Agriculture-Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, during the launch of a joint RP-US goat production project, at the 2010 Agrilink, October 7, at the World Trade Center, in Manila.

not on just a couple of goods. The unused amount per week cannot be carried over to the following weeks purchase. As previously practiced, senior citizens can only avail of discounts if they present their respective purchase booklet (PB) issued by the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA). In case the senior citizen cannot personally go to store due to physical ailment or illness, his/ her representative should present a valid government issued identification, the senior citizens PB, and an authorization letter. Retailers exempted from granting the 5% discount are stalls in food courts, food carts, food vendors, and sari-sari stores with a capitalization of less than P100,000, public and private wet markets, talipapa and cooperative stores.

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Japan grants ...

(from p1)

including the training of farmers and personnel of farmers organizations in the various components of an operational data system. The project will be implemented for three years and intends to undertake various activities such as: designing a farmer-based information service; provision of training for farmers; installation of necessary IT infrastructure; forging partnerships between gov-

Pres. Aquino ...

(from p2)

gress will serve as a venue for all stakeholders to unite and further enhance the agricultural sector. Wala pong duda: ang mga binhi ng pagbabago na ating itinanim ngayon ay magbubunga ng magandang kinabukasan, na aanihin at ipapamana natin sa susunod na henerasyon. Napakaganda na po ng ating nasimulan; ituloy po natin ang sama-samang pagtahak sa tuwid na landas, he noted. The corn congress was held in conjunction with the celebration of World Food Day. The Corn Congress is an annual gathering of more than 3,000 small corn farmers and leaders, government and private sector agricultural technicians, and other private sector industry stakeholders. (Phil. Star / OP) (Japanese Embassy, Philippines)

ernment and NGOs; and establishment of economic classification system for Filipino farmers. The project will cover initially 12 provinces: Benguet, Ifugao, Mt. Province, Nueva Vizcaya, Palawan, Iloilo, Capiz, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Leyte, Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon. Three areas in Central Visayas and CARAGA regions will be added for the projects expansion. It is expected that the production and marketing analysis service component of the project will enhance service delivery to farmers in the target areas. The project aims to provide farmers adequate information such as situational analysis, production, planning and marketing -- and enable them to achieve higher productivity and income, and thus empower them. For the past thirty years, the 2KR Program has made a positive impact on the livelihood of Filipino farmers. The project reaffirms Japans commitment, as the top donor of the Official Development Assistance to the Philippines, to support the efforts of the Government of the Philippines to alleviate poverty and achieve food self-sufficiency. The project also serves as a continuing testimony of strategic partnership between Japan and the Philippines towards the future.

Farm Equipment for Palawan. Secretary Alcala (insert, 3rd from left) hands over a symbolic key to Palawan Gov. Abraham Kahlil Mitra (inset, left), commencing the turnover of various farm equipment consisting of a 4-wheel tractor, water pump engine sets for shallow tube wells (foreground), and shredders for organic fertilizer productionunder the DAs counterparting program with Palawan local government units (LGUs), and farmers and fishers cooperatives. It was part of a Provincial Agriculture Summit, held October 1 at the provincial capitol, where Sec. Alcala held a four-hour town hall consultation with 500 farmers, fishers, provincial and municipal agriculturists and extension workers, provincial board members, municipal mayors, and officials and staff of DA agencies in Region 4B (MIMAROPA). Also shown (inset, from left) are Palawan provincial agriculturist engineer Teresita Guian, provincial board member Gil Acosta, DA-4B regional technical director Yvonne Vinas, and director Silvino Tejada of the DA-Bureau of Soils and Water Management.

DA-PCIC ...

(from p1)

DA vows support to Cordillera farmers, LGUs. Secretary Alcala joins hands with four representatives of the Cordillera Autonomous Region (CAR) -- (from left) Mt. Province Rep. Maximo Dalog, Benguet Rep. Ronald Cosalan, Abra Rep. Ma. Jocelyn Bernos and Ifugao Rep. Teddy Brawner Baguilat -- as a pledge to sustain agricultural development programs in the region and uplift the economic condition of the Cordillerans. The four legislators called on Sec. Alcala, October 4, 2010 at the DA central office. Sec. Alcala assured them the DA will continue to pursue worthy projects such as establishment of trading posts and tramlines, construction of farmto-market roads and small water impounding projects, and setting up of centralized seed banks, and fish (pangasius and tilapia) hatcheries. October 2010

has caused an estimated damage to agriculture, fishery and infrastructure totaling P11.53 billion (B), as of October 28, 2010. It affected 21 provinces in four regions (Cagayan Valley, Cordillera, Ilocos and Central Luzon), inflicting the biggest damage on the palay (unmilled rice) sector, at P8.93-B, as more than 425,000 hectares were affected with an opportunity loss of more than 523,000 metric tons (MT). Of the total area, about 9,000 hectares have no chance of recovery, while the rest (more than 416,000 hectares) could still be salvaged. As of October 28, 2010, about 9,000 hectares planted to rice have no chance of recovery, based on reports submitted by provincial and municipal officers of affected Local Government Units (LGUs). Some P660-M worth of vegetables, mango and banana were destroyed planted in some 6,370 hectares. A total of 18,048 hectares of corn were affected, with an estimated loss of 27,000 MT worth P368-M. The fishery sector also lost some P212.5-M worth of fish, cages and pens, while the livestock and poultry sector suffered P10.6-M. Several agricultural, fishery and

rural infrastructureincluding DA facilitieswere also damaged, such as: irrigation and FMRs, P1.27-B; fishery, livestock and DA facilities, P77.46-M. Three provincesPangasinan (P2.4-B), Nueva Ecija (P2.1-B) and Isabela (P1.6-B)suffered the biggest losses, mainly palay. Impact on 4th Qtr production Total rice area affected (425,134 hectares) represents 22.85% of the 1.86Mhectares projected to be harvested nationwide, from October to December. The estimated loss of 523,013 MT is roughly 7.5% of the forecast production of about 7 million MT in the 4th quarter 2010. As for corn, the area affected (18,048 hectares) is only 2.8% of the 645,695 hectares to be harvested in the 4th quarter. Estimated loss (26,986 MT) is merely 1.7% of the 1.6M MT projected production for the period. Meanwhile, PCIC president Jovy Bernabe said the indemnity checks will be distributed to insured rice and corn farmers in Central Luzon, totaling P86.729M, Cagayan Valley (region 2) farmers will receive a total of P45.714-M, while Ilocos (region 1) farmers will get P25.046-M. Bernabe said the farmers will receive their respective checks within 15 to 20 days. This will enable them to recoup their losses, buy seeds and inputs, and replant again.

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more tramlines DA to put up mor e tr amlines

The Department of Agriculture through the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) will put up 106 tramlines in 10 regions this year and 2011. In a report to Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala, PhilMech executive director Ricardo Cachuela said they plan to construct the tramlines in the Cordillera Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), and eight other regions (3, 4-A and 4B, 5, 7, 9, 10 and 12). He said the DA has P300-million, earmarked by various agencies for postharvest-related initiatives which the DA could use to construct more tramlines. A tramline is a cable system used to transport products from inaccessible mountainous areas, traversing ravines or rivers. It is operated by a farmers group, which collects agreed fees to maintain the system. Cachuela said the construction of the tramlines will be undertaken in partnership with the DA Regional Field Units (DA-RFUs), farmers groups and respective local government units. Of the 106 tramlines, two were completed in Quezon and Bacolod; while four are under construction (three in Mindanao, and one in Bacolod). To date, Philmech said there are 27 existing tramlines in Benguet, Nueva Vizcaya, Mt. Province, Laguna, Cebu and Iloilo. These were built since 2000. The agricultural tramline system (ATS) is applicable to large clusters of farms located either in mountainous areas or vast plains that traverse rivers or ravines. Its main benefit is reducing transport costs and post harvest losses, at the same time ensuring speedy and timely delivery of farm products, Cachuela said. A tramline system with an average span of 500 meters costs P1.6 million. The project can be financed jointly by farmers group, DA-PhilMech and concerned LGU, Cachuela said. (DA / Business Mirror)

Iwahig rice hectarage to double via irrigation

The Department of Agriculture recently forged a partnership with the Iwahig Penal Colony that will restore and repair irrigation systems to double existing rice areas to about 700 hectares, and thus produce additional rice supply for Palawan. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala and Iwahig Penal Colony Superintendent Mario Trasmonte forged the agreement, and witnessed by Palawan Governor

DA to help expand Iwahig rice areas. Secretary Alcala (right) instructs NIA 4B regional officer Conrado Cardenas, Jr. (left) to validate potential expansion areas at the Iwahig Penal Farm in Palawan, and speed up the restoration and repair of irrigation systems that will double rice hectarage.
Abraham Kahlil Mitra and National Irrigation Administration (NIA) region 4B manager Conrado Cardenas, Jr. Cardenas said there are still some 1,500 hectares of rainfed areas that could be irrigated and provide additional rice harvest to supply the demand of Palawan and nearby provinces. To which, Sec. Alcala instructed Cardenas to validate the potential expansion areas and submit his recommendations soonest to speed up the restoration and repair of irrigation systems. For his part, Transmonte said Iwahig farm has the manpower to transform idle lands into productive rice farms, and all it needs are funding support and technical supervision from the DA and NIA. These efforts will contribute in part to attaining the governments target of rice selfsufficiency by 2013, Alcala said. While in Palawan, Sec. Alcala distributed more than P2-million worth of farm machinery and equipmenta four-wheel drive hand tractor, low lift pumps, shallow tube wells, and shredders to farmers groups and Palawan municipal LGUs. Incentives were also given to farmers under the Participatory Coconut Planting program, while certificates of entitlement under the Salt Fertilization Program of the Philippine Coconut Authority were distributed. Alcala assured the farmers and fishers that the DA will continue to craft policies and implement sustainable programs to enhance Palawans agri-fishery sector. We have to work together to attain the goal of rice selfsufficiency, he added urging everyone to take part in the main agenda of the Aquino government geared at sustainable food production. Alcala said the DA will also put up community seed banks in Palawan, and in other parts of the country, to empower rice seed growers and enable them to produce quality seeds in a sustainable basis.

DA Chief Meets APEC Counterparts in Japan. Secretary Alcala (extreme right) answers a query on the effects of La Nia and climate change in the Philippines during a press conference at the First AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meeting on Food Security, October 16-17, 2010, in Niagata, Japan, attended by agriculture, forestry and fisheries ministers from 21 APEC member-countries. After the meeting, they agreed to share experiences and cooperate on several imperatives, such as: expanding food supply, enhancing disaster preparedness, developing rural communities, confronting challenges in climate change and natural resources management, promoting investments, facilitating trade in food and agricultural products, strengthening confidence in agricultural markets, and improving agribusiness environment and food safety practices. Shown with Sec. Alcala at the front row are agriculture ministers (from left) of Malaysia, Mexico, Japan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Peru.