Lanao del Norte, December 12 — In a significant move to boost agricultural productivity and economic growth, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte, through its Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO), has distributed modern agricultural equipment to farmers in the province. The ceremonial distribution was held at the Provincial Nursery Seed Farm (PNSF) in Kapatagan, where 30 local farmers received Portable Solar Dryers, and 12 Farmers’ Associations were equipped with Water Pump Engines.
The initiative aims to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance irrigation capacity, providing much-needed support to farmers and empowering agricultural communities. The program was made possible through collaborative funding from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-RFO 10) and the Department of Science and Technology – Region 10 (DOST-10).
Present during the ceremony were Hon. Reinario Bihag, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member and Committee Chairman on Agriculture, and Engr. Roy Sagrado, Provincial Director of DOST-Lanao del Norte, who delivered a message on behalf of DOST-10 Regional Director.
In his remarks, Engr. Sagrado underscored the significance of the portable solar dryers in supporting farmers’ livelihoods and enhancing resilience against calamities. “Kining Solar Dryer nga among ihatag sainyo, dili lamang usa ka pamasko na regalo kundili usa sad ka oportunidad nga magamit ninyo alang sa inyong mga panginabuhi labi na sa pagpangandam sa kalamidad. Kini usa ka dako nga oportunidad alang sa mga mag-uuma ug mga negosyante nga pareha kaninyo, mahimo ninyong mapa-uswag ang kalidad ug presyo sa inyong mga produkto,” he said.
He further emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness in mitigating hunger and economic disruptions. “Kami sa DOST andam nga motabang sainyo kung magkinahanglan kamo ug mga teknolohiya sa pag-preserbar ug mga pagkaon. Ayaw ninyo kalimti nga ang pagpangandam, mao ang panalipod sa gutom ug kalamidad,” he added.
The portable solar dryers will significantly help farmers reduce spoilage of harvested crops, such as rice, corn, and vegetables, by harnessing renewable solar energy for more efficient and eco-friendly drying. Simultaneously, the water pump engines provided to farmers’ associations will improve irrigation systems, ensuring a steady water supply, particularly during the dry season.
These interventions align with the provincial government’s vision of enhancing agricultural sustainability and resilience amid climate challenges. By equipping farmers with innovative tools, the initiative seeks to foster improved agricultural practices, reduce losses, and promote local economic growth.
The distribution marks a milestone in the province’s ongoing efforts to empower its agricultural sector, ensuring that farmers have access to the resources they need to thrive in an evolving agricultural landscape.