Marawi City, Lanao del Sur — In a significant push to boost local agriculture and reach marginalized farming communities, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur recently conducted two key activities aimed at strengthening both livestock production and vegetable farming in the province.
Held at the Social Hall of the New Capitol in Marawi City, the 4th Livestock and Poultry Congress brought together farmers, government officials, and private partners to enhance the capacity of livestock and poultry stakeholders. Spearheaded by the Provincial Veterinary Office under Dr. Al-Hussein “Vet Al” Domaot, the congress emphasized innovation, sustainability, and government support for animal agriculture.
Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid “Mujam” Raki-in Adiong, who delivered the opening message, underscored the administration’s commitment to food security through the ongoing construction of the Provincial Food Terminal, which is expected to greatly benefit farmers by improving market access and logistics.
Dr. Domaot acknowledged the strong backing of Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr. and Vice Governor Adiong, which he said was crucial to the congress’s success. A message of support from Department of Agriculture Assistant Secretary Dr. Benjamin Albarece further encouraged local efforts, citing the importance of Halal certification in expanding opportunities for livestock farmers in both domestic and international markets.
The event also honored outstanding livestock raisers through competitions that awarded those with the heaviest goats and cattle, as assessed by the Veterinary Office during municipal visits. A raffle draw added excitement to the gathering, with native chickens, ducks, and goats given away courtesy of the Vice Governor.
Private sector partner CJ Philippines also contributed by conducting a lecture on basic broiler management and presenting their products, enriching the technical knowledge of attendees.
Meanwhile, in the remote and conflict-affected barangays of Barit and Carandangan in Lumba Bayabao, the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (PLGU-OPAg) held a three-day Livelihood Training on Vegetable Production from July 21–23, 2025. This initiative, in collaboration with the 5th Infantry (Duty Bound) Battalion’s Mobile Community Support and Sustainment Program (MCSSP), was aimed at equipping 75 farmers—members of the Carandangan Mipaga Farmers Association and the Barit Women’s Farmers Association—with practical skills to sustain backyard and small-scale vegetable farming.
Covered topics included soil testing, nursery establishment, natural insect attractants, and the production of organic inputs using the Natural Farming Technology System (NFTS). Participants also received vegetable seeds and IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials to help them implement the lessons learned in their home gardens and farmlands.
For many attendees, it was their first exposure to hands-on agricultural training due to the isolation of their communities. One farmer, Alimar M. Ampuan, a farmer-leader from Brgy. Barit, shared, “This three-day training gave us not just knowledge, but hope. For farmers like us living in remote areas, this was an opportunity we’ve long waited for.”
The success of the activity was made possible with the support of Lumba Bayabao Municipal Mayor Hon. Mahar P. Dagalangit, as well as the dedication of military partners CPT Kim Carlo T. Garino and CPT Cedric M. Genovaña of the Alpha Company, Philippine Army, whose presence helped ensure that vital services reached these underserved areas.
These twin efforts—in the city center and in remote upland barangays—demonstrate Lanao del Sur’s comprehensive strategy to empower its farmers, bridge developmental gaps, and uplift communities through inclusive agricultural programs. With strong leadership and multi-sectoral collaboration, the province is steadily cultivating a more resilient, productive, and hopeful future for its rural population.