KIDAPAWAN CITY, Cotabato — The Provincial Government of Cotabato has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting the local rice industry through a series of strategic meetings and dialogues aimed at strengthening stakeholder collaboration and enhancing agricultural productivity across the province.
On June 23, 2025, the Cotabato Rice Technical Working Group and Irrigators’ Association Presidents gathered for a coordination meeting at the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) Conference Room, Agri-Center, Amas, Kidapawan City. The meeting focused on reviewing the current status of the Cotabato Rice Revolution Program (CRRP) for 2024–2025, securing local government unit (LGU) commitments for the 2026 phase, and preparing for the upcoming Cotabato Rice Congress — an event designed to foster stronger cooperation among farmers, irrigators, and other stakeholders in the province’s rice industry.
The activity was led by the OPAg under the leadership of Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza, whose administration continues to push for an organized and sustainable rice industry in Cotabato. Through open dialogue and proactive stakeholder involvement, the province aims to increase rice production and improve the livelihood of Cotabateño farmers.
Governor Taliño-Mendoza emphasized the importance of collective voices in agriculture, expressing confidence that the concerns and suggestions of farmers will reach her office and other government agencies. This, she said, is crucial in formulating responsive programs and addressing the actual needs of local agricultural communities.
Continuing this commitment, OPAg facilitated another important gathering on June 24, 2025 — the “Provincial Federation of Farmers Association President” meeting held at the Agri-Center Building, Capitol Compound, Amas, Kidapawan City. The meeting, spearheaded by Acting Provincial Agriculturist Elena E. Ragonton, alongside Provincial Farmers Association Focal Person Vladimir T. Eusala and Provincial Administrator Aurora P. Garcia, covered various updates and directions for the Farmers Association and the Provincial Agricultural and Fisheries Council (PAFC).
Discussions included upcoming activities for the Kalivungan Festival 2025 and updates on programs from PHILMECH and the Department of Agriculture–Region 12. The meeting also served as a platform for farmers’ representatives to share knowledge, concerns, and resources, all aimed at promoting agricultural growth in the province.
Through these efforts, the Provincial Government of Cotabato continues to build a resilient and unified farming sector, ensuring that the voices of its farmers are heard and their needs are met in pursuit of agricultural advancement.