ILOILO City – The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Western Visayas on Tuesday aims to sustain its gains after the 6.3 percent growth record of the agriculture, forestry, and fishing (AFF) sector in 2020.
“We are very happy because at least despite the pandemic, our farmers, our fisherfolks, and livestock growers continue with their usual activities,” DA-6 regional director Remelyn Recoter said.
She said the gains could not be achieved without the government’s support through the Bayanihan I and II and the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund.
Out of 6.2 percent growth, Recoter stressed that the crops contributed a big share.
Rice farmers were also provided with free seeds and fertilizers.
They also received farm machinery from the Philippine Center for Post-harvest Development and Mechanization and financing support from Landbank of the Philippines and Development Bank of the Philippines.
Training and extension services were also conducted according to Recoter.
“We hope to sustain it but course if the funds are available,” she said.
During the 2020 Report on the Economic Performance of Western Visayas on April 29, the Philippine Statistics Authority Western Visayas said the region has the fastest AFF growth in the country.PNA/PN
