DA dev’t project boosts rubber production in Butuan City
By
Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) – The Department of Agriculture- Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) has provided support and assistance to rubber farmers and cooperatives in Caraga region to strengthen the rubber industry and widen its market opportunities.
The KM7 Farmers Producer Cooperative (KFPC) is a cooperative organized by rubber farmers in Barangay Tungao, Butuan City, and served as one of the project beneficiaries of the DA-PRDP in Caraga.
Samuel Calawigan Jr., chairperson of the KM7 KFPC, shared the transformation of their cooperative because of the support of DA-PRDP.
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| DA-PRDP introduced to the rubber farmers of the KM7 Farmers Producer Cooperative in Barangay Tungao, Butuan City another cloned variety of rubber tree that could produce more rubber latex. The project also taught the rubber farmers to use the right equipment such as cups, tapping knives and rain protective structures that resulted in a more efficient and productive harvest. Photo courtesy of PRDP InfoACE |
“Tungod sa suporta sa DA-PRDP, nakadawat mi ug dakong oportunidad ug nidaghan ang among produksyon sa rubber cup lump. Among naobserbahan nga sulod sa usa ka bulan, makakaya nami nga mukonsolida ug 30 tons nga rubber cup lumps,” Calawigan said.
(Through DA-PRDP’s support, opportunities have started to open for our farmers and the cooperative. Lately, in a month, the production of our cooperative has increased because we can now consolidate 30 tons of rubber cup lumps.)
Calawigan explained that the increase in their production of rubber cup lumps is due to the engagements and interventions facilitated by DA-PRDP, such as capacity building and training, saying, “We were taught good agricultural practices in rubber farming. This livelihood has also improved the peace and order situation in our community.”
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| During his interview with the Department of Agriculture Caraga, Samuel Calawigan Jr., chairperson of the KM7 KFPC, shared the transformational journey of the rubber farmers of the organization with the help of DA’s Philippine Rural Development Project. Photo courtesy of PRDP InfoACE 13. |
DA Caraga Director Arlan M. Mangelen said, “The Integrated Rubber Production and Marketing subproject of the KM7 KFPC was completed in 2020 under the PRDP Mindanao cluster, with a project cost of P22,184,350.13. The completion of the project transformed the way of life and economic status of its members and the cooperative.”
“DA Caraga will continue to assist the project’s beneficiaries in improving their organizations to elevate their income and increase their productivity and competitiveness,” Dir. Mangelen added.
Under the DA, the PRDP is a national project that aims to establish a modern, value-chain-oriented and climate-resilient agriculture and fisheries sector.
In partnership with local government units and the private sector, it shall provide key infrastructure, facilities, technology, and information to raise income, productivity, and competitiveness in targeted areas. (NCLM/PIA-Agusan del Norte)
