March 8, 2024 | Makilala, North Cotabato
In a significant event held to celebrate the 2nd founding anniversary of the PRRI Experimental Station in Cotabato, executives from the Department of Agriculture (DA) were joined by other government officials and experts in visiting Prime Homestead Agri Ventures Inc (PHAVI Farm) , a DA-ATI and PhilGAP certified farm in North Cotabato. Among those present were Undersecretary for DA Bureaus, Mercedita A. Sombilla, Ph.D., Undersecretary for HVCDP Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, Alfonso Jack F. Sandique, Chairperson, PCAF National Banner Program for HVCDP Rubber, Gabriel Igot , former PRIA President, Christopher Ocite vice Chair Rubber Industry Devt Board of Agusan del Sur, Dr. Narceo B. Bajet, Balik Scientist, Dr. Jeshurun Asher M. Tarun, Balik Scientist, Mr. Karl Vincent Jose, DA-BPO, and Mr. John Benrich Zuniga, DOST PCAARRD.
The visit to the rubber farm served as a powerful reminder of the significant role that rubber farming plays in the agricultural sector. Rubber provides not only a valuable source of income for farmers but also contributes to the country’s economy as a whole. By witnessing the importance of rubber farming firsthand, the DA executives gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by rubber farmers and the potential for growth and development in the rubber industry.
This visit also highlighted the collaboration between the PRRI and other government agencies in promoting the development of the rubber industry. The PRRI aims to provide necessary support and resources to rubber farmers, ensuring they have access to the latest technologies and techniques for efficient and sustainable rubber cultivation. Through this, the DA executives reaffirmed their commitment to the growth and progress of the rubber farming industry and beyond.
– Thom Cruz
