Mountain Province Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, along with provincial officials, turned over the Provincial Agricultural and Fishery Mechanization Plan (PAFMP) for 2024-2028 to the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (DA-BAFE), marking the start of the province’s initiative to modernize its agriculture and fisheries sector.
The plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to modernize the province’s agricultural sector, enhancing productivity through mechanization and reducing post-harvest losses. The DA-BAFE plays a crucial role in providing technical assistance to the province in implementing the plan.
Promoting efficiency and sustainability in the agriculture and fishery sectors
Mountain Province has long depended on traditional farming practices. The PAFMP aims to modernize these methods to ensure that the province’s agricultural and fishery sectors can meet the demands of a growing market. By introducing modern technology and equipment, the plan seeks to boost productivity, reduce labor-intensive work, and promote sustainable practices.
“This plan is a vital step toward empowering our farmers and fisherfolk, ensuring they have the resources and technology they need to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the economic development of our province,” said Gov. Lacwasan during the turnover ceremony.
A core element of the plan is the introduction of postharvest infrastructure, such as warehouses and multi-purpose drying pavements. These facilities are expected to reduce postharvest losses and help farmers maximize the value of their produce. With these interventions, the province aims to reduce input and labor costs while increasing farmers’ real incomes.
“With the right form of mechanization interventions, input and labor costs, as well as postharvest losses, are reduced. The introduction of infrastructure like drying pavements will also allow farmers to store and process their products more efficiently,” said Engr. Beyden.
An ambitious five-year plan
The PAFMP outlines ambitious goals for the province over the next five years. Among the key objectives are increasing the level of mechanization, reducing production costs, and raising the income levels of farmers. The plan is expected to benefit the ten municipalities of Mountain Province: Barlig, Bauko, Besao, Bontoc, Natonin, Paracelis, Sabangan, Sadanga, Sagada, and Tadian.
According to the plan, these goals are aligned with the broader national agenda of improving agricultural sustainability and competitiveness. Gov. Lacwasan expressed confidence that these measures will transform the province’s agricultural sector, making it more resilient and competitive.
“We are committed to implementing this plan effectively to ensure that every farmer and fisherfolk in our province has access to these benefits. This is about securing the future of agriculture in Mountain Province and improving the lives of our people,” Lacwasan said.
Dir. Rico emphasized the importance of technical support in making the mechanization plan a reality. The DA-BAFE, which serves as DA’s engineering arm, will assist in ensuring that the technologies introduced are suitable for Mountain Province’s terrain and needs. This partnership between the national bureau and the local government is key to achieving the plan’s objectives.
The DA-BAFE has been instrumental in providing local government units (LGUs) with guidance and expertise, particularly in aligning provincial initiatives with national agricultural programs. The bureau’s involvement is seen as a critical factor in ensuring the success of the mechanization plan.—Press release from DA BAFE/MF
