Phillipine Farmers, Fisherfolks Receive $60,000 Boost In Projtects

News in brief:**- Philippine farmers and fisherfolks received $60,000 in agri-fishery projects and marketing fund assistance to bolster local agriculture and fisheries sectors.- The initiatives aim to empower beneficiaries, enhance operational efficiency, increase income, and address challenges such as climate change, underscoring the government's commitment to sustainable agricultural development. Negros Occidental's agricultural and fisheries sectors welcomed a significant support as Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson led the turnover of agri-fishery projects and marketing fund assistance totaling PHP3.3 million (or $60,000), a local media outfit reported. Governor Lacson, joined by Provincial Board members Rita Gatuslao and Jeffrey Tubola, orchestrated the turnover ceremony at Negros Residences, acknowledging the pivotal role played by local farmers and fisherfolks in ensuring food security and enhancing agricultural productivity.

Provincial commitment to agricultural development

Expressing the province's dedication to agricultural development, Governor Lacson reaffirmed the government's preparedness to confront challenges, particularly those posed by climate change. Implemented under the Coastal Fisheries Resources Management Program, the agri-fishery projects encompass the distribution of vital resources such as post-harvest equipment, computers, ID printers, marine protected areas (MPA) marker buoys, and GPS navigational instruments. These resources are strategically chosen to empower beneficiaries, improve operational efficiency, augment income, and mitigate post-harvest losses. Simultaneously, the Livelihood Support and Marketing Fund Assistance Program channels financial aid towards livelihood initiatives and marketing endeavors. This initiative particularly benefits rural women, rural improvement clubs (RIC), and agri-fishery organisations, fostering economic growth at the grassroots level.