Surigao Sur boosts agri-fishery for food security
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) -- In the face of climate shifts and economic pressures, the provincial government of Surigao del Sur is stepping up efforts to improve local agriculture and ensure every family has enough food.
Provincial Agriculturist Esmeraldo S. Raymundo, concurrent provincial administrator, shared how the province is using a variety of approaches to tackle food security while uplifting the lives of farmers and fisherfolk.
"Our goal goes beyond increasing food production. We want to ensure every household benefits while empowering our agri-fishery communities," Raymundo said.
Better access to resources
A major strategy involves giving farmers and fisherfolk better access to what they need. With support from the Department of Agriculture (DA), the province provides quality seeds, fertilizers, fishing gear, and modern tools at affordable prices. Farmer cooperatives help distribute these fairly.
"We’re working closely with the DA and other national agencies to bring the support right where it’s needed," Raymundo added.
The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) in Surigao del Sur regularly holds training sessions to teach farmers about climate-resilient crops, sustainable farming, organic agriculture, and modern fishing methods. Aquaculture and small business skills are also part of the program.
"Tools are useful, but knowledge is power. That’s what we want to share," said Raymundo.
To reduce post-harvest losses and make transport easier, OPAG is pushing for the development and rehabilitation of irrigation systems, post-harvest facilities, and farm-to-market roads. The construction of fish ports and cold storage facilities is also in the pipeline to ensure the freshness of fishery products.
These improvements are made in collaboration with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
Financial assistance
To protect farmers from losses due to disasters, the province is working to expand access to low-interest loans and crop insurance through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) and banks. Non-government organizations (NGO) are also being tapped to help fund community-based farming and fishing projects.
"Disasters are unpredictable, but being financially ready can lessen the damage," Raymundo said.
The provincial government is also helping farmers and fisherfolk connect directly with buyers through food hubs and online selling platforms. Working with the DA’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS), they aim to ensure fair prices and stable markets.
To help communities adapt to climate change, the province engages with disaster risk reduction in its food programs. This includes early warning systems, training on climate-smart farming, and providing seeds that can withstand tough weather conditions.
With these combined efforts, Surigao del Sur hopes to not just fight hunger but to build a strong, resilient, and empowered agri-fishery in the province. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)