Farmers get P2M worth of equipment

The Cebu provincial government has turned over P2 million worth of agri-machineries and equipment to the beneficiaries of the Farmer-Scientists Training Program (FSTP).

Moisture meters, cultivator tiller, power sprayer, and knapsack sprayers were among the farm equipment given to various farmers' associations during the 10th assembly of the Capitol's FSTP last Tuesday.

Farm implements, such as submersible pump and garden tools were also given during the event.

Aside from the equipment, the farmers also received over 10,000 various seedlings, vegetable cuttings, and more than 500 packs of fertilizer.

The Capitol's program aims to solidify Cebu's agriculture sector through Governor Hilario Davide III's food security and countryside development agenda.

Provincial Agriculturist Roldan Saragena said the machineries and farm inputs will help in improving the quality of crops that would encourage FSTP members to surpass their current production rate of three tons of corn per hectare.

"The Cebu provincial government, headed by Gov. Davide, is sincere in implementing programs geared towards countryside development. Through FSTP, we can now yield up to three tons of corn per hectare," Saragena said.

He also said the farmers won't just be focusing on cornbased training, but also on vegetable-based and fishermanscientist trainings.

"I believe that FSTP has helped you (farmer-scientists) in increasing your yield. I hope that you continue to nurture the acquired knowledge that you have and teach your fellow farmers. The provincial government is always here to support your efforts para sa 'Kalambuan sa Matag Sugbuanon,'" said Romulo "Loloy" Davide, FSTP national program leader and Capitol consultant on agriculture.

The province has around 17,000 farmer-scientists. During a recent forum, the farmers raised their concerns on low prices of products and crops as they reach the market.

"Usa gyud ilang gi-raise, ang presyo sa mga utanon. High cost of inputs, high cost of production unya ig-abot sa merkado mobarato," Saragena said.

To address this, he said, they are coordinating with the management of Carbon market regarding the demand and supply of agricultural products.

Moreover, outstanding towns, associations, and individuals who made a valuable contribution to agri-business were also honored during the event. The awardees were Camella Geralla, a squash noodle entrepreneur of Boljoon town, and Catherine Subing-Subing, who owns a sari-sari store in Barili town.

The farmer associations, namely Malalay Farmer Beneficiaries Organization in Ronda, Cañorong Farmers Association in Ginatilan and Samboan Farmer-Scientist Association also received citations for their constant and active participation in FSTP. —

Lorraine Mitzi A. Ambrad with USJ-R Intern Ashlee Marzon/KBQ