Butuan City, January 16 — In a significant move to address poverty and boost agricultural development in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) in the Caraga region, the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Caraga convened with the Philippine Army to harmonize intervention programs. This collaborative effort aims to transform these areas into thriving agricultural hubs.
DA-Caraga Regional Executive Director and Poverty Reduction, Livelihood, and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) Chairperson Arlan M. Mangelen spearheaded the meeting, emphasizing the importance of aligning strategies to deliver impactful and sustainable support. The discussions centered on implementing feasible interventions in partnership with the ten infantry battalions of the Philippine Army.
“Along with other line agencies, we are committed to working with the LGUs to restore the communities with sufficient food on the table of every household and a dependable income stream that will eventually build peace,” Director Mangelen stated during the meeting.
Agricultural Impact and Investments
The Caraga region currently lists 523 barangays under the GIDA classification. Of these, 94 barangays benefited from DA interventions in Fiscal Year 2024 through collaborations with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Farmer Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs). These efforts resulted in agricultural projects and initiatives totaling ₱503 million, which provided communities with vital resources and tools to improve their livelihoods.
Focus on Sustainability and Peace
Looking ahead, DA-Caraga has identified potential People’s Organizations (POs) to establish Peace Farms in 2025. These farms will promote organic farming methods and farm diversification to ensure sustainability. The Philippine Army’s involvement will be instrumental in identifying and organizing these POs, further strengthening the partnership’s mission to bring sustainable agricultural solutions to GIDA barangays.
The Role of PRLEC and NTF-ELCAC
The PRLEC operates under the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC). This inter-agency body, which includes the DA, TESDA, DTI, DOLE, DBP, DSWD, and DAR, focuses on addressing the root causes of poverty and insurgency by implementing community-centered programs. By fostering collaboration between government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and grassroots organizations, PRLEC seeks to create long-term solutions that empower communities.
Building Resilient Communities
The partnership between DA-Caraga and the Philippine Army reflects a shared commitment to uplifting marginalized communities in the Caraga region. With a focus on food security, livelihood opportunities, and sustainable farming practices, the initiative aims to build resilient communities that can thrive economically and socially.
As these efforts unfold, the collaborative model established in Caraga may serve as a template for similar initiatives across the country, bringing hope and progress to isolated and disadvantaged areas.