ZAMBOANGA CITY – In a continued effort to enhance agricultural productivity, the city government under Mayor John Dalipe has acquired six additional four-wheel farm tractors, further strengthening support for local farmers. These units supplement the six tractors previously turned over to the City Agriculturist Office (CAO), underscoring the administration’s commitment to agricultural mechanization.
The official turnover ceremony took place on Monday, February 17, immediately following the flag-raising event at City Hall grounds. Mayor Dalipe, alongside Majority Leader and District II Representative Mannix Dalipe and several members of the City Council, led the handover to the CAO, represented by its head, Arben Magdugo. The new tractors will be distributed across six Agricultural Field Offices in Vitali, Curuan, Manicahan, Culianan, Ayala, and Tumaga to support farmers in these areas.
Each tractor, manufactured in Japan, is valued at P3.2 million and is expected to significantly contribute to increased food production. Mayor Dalipe emphasized that this initiative is part of Zamboanga City’s broader agricultural mechanization and modernization program, aimed at enhancing productivity and promoting sustainability in the agricultural sector.
The turnover event was marked by a blessing ceremony officiated by Fr. Filmore Calibo, signifying the city’s hopes for prosperity and success in its agricultural initiatives.
In a further boost to the sector, CAO head Arben Magdugo announced that the city will also distribute additional farming equipment, including 24 walk-behind transplanters, 48 power tillers, two rice combine harvesters, and 127 water pumps. These resources are intended to further improve agricultural production and ensure food security in Zamboanga City.
City officials present at the event included Councilors Al-Jihan Edding, James Siason, and Jordan Evangelista, who also serves as the Liga ng mga Barangay President, along with staff from the Office of the City Agriculture.