As December 2024 draws to a close, the Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga is determined to maximize the remaining days of the year by advancing crucial initiatives for local farmers. This commitment was evident in a significant development that links two prominent community-based organizations in Cabadbaran City.

The successful partnership between the Federation of Cabadbaran Irrigators and Farmers Association, Inc. (FECIFAI) and the Crops Producers Cooperative (CROPPCO) with the Princity-Inc. highlights the convergence efforts of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Cabadbaran. Under the leadership of Hon. Judy Amante, with the full support of the City Agriculture Office, the collaboration has taken a significant step forward.

This partnership involves the delivery of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certified rice products or “GAPproved Rice (through the facilitation of DA-PhilRice Agusan Experiment Station), and other varieties by the Federation of Cabadbaran Irrigators and Farmers Association, Inc. to Princity-Inc. at their Cabadbaran Branch.

Meanwhile, the Crops Producers Cooperative (CROPPCO) will supply squash pancit, further strengthening the local agricultural network. These collaborations are set to improve market access for local farmers and contribute to the growth of regional agricultural products.

The efforts of EPAHP Caraga, in collaboration with local organizations, partner agencies, and LGUs, aim to continue helping the farmers and fisherfolk of the region.

While 2024 may be coming to a close, this is just the beginning. The EPAHP Program’s success in the region sets the stage for continued support in 2025, with plans for further expansion and the enhancement of the livelihoods of Caraganon farmers and fisherfolk. As the year concludes, it marks not an end but the dawn of a new chapter in regional agricultural development.