Mindanao Farmers Get Boost: PBBM Launches Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid Program for Enhanced Support
DAVAO CITY, MINDANAO – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. spearheaded the launch of the highly anticipated Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid (APP) Program in Mindanao on Friday, marking a significant step towards empowering farmers and bolstering agricultural productivity in the region. The launch event, held at the Sarangani Gymnasium in Alabel, Sarangani Province, drew a large crowd of farmers, local officials, and stakeholders eager to learn more about the program's benefits.
The APP Program is designed to provide farmers in Mindanao with improved access to crucial government assistance, including financial support, technical expertise, and market linkages. Recognizing the vital role of agriculture in the Philippine economy and the specific challenges faced by Mindanao farmers, President Marcos Jr. emphasized the government's commitment to supporting the sector's growth.
“This program is a testament to our dedication to ensuring food security and improving the livelihoods of our farmers,” President Marcos Jr. stated in his keynote speech. “We understand the difficulties you face – from access to capital and modern technology to fluctuating market prices. The Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid Program is our response to these challenges, providing you with the resources and support you need to thrive.”
Key Components of the APP Program:
- Puhunan (Capital): The program offers access to low-interest loans and grants to help farmers invest in their farms, purchase equipment, and adopt modern farming techniques.
- Pantawid (Support): Beyond financial assistance, the APP Program provides technical training, extension services, and market access support to ensure farmers can effectively utilize the capital and maximize their yields.
- Targeted Assistance: The program prioritizes smallholder farmers, women farmers, and farmers in underserved areas of Mindanao, ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most.
The launch event included demonstrations of modern farming technologies, presentations from agricultural experts, and opportunities for farmers to directly engage with program representatives. Local officials expressed their gratitude for the government's initiative, highlighting the potential of the APP Program to transform the agricultural landscape of Mindanao.
The Philippine government's focus on Mindanao's agricultural sector reflects its understanding of the region's importance to national food security and economic development. The Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid Program is expected to contribute significantly to increasing agricultural production, improving farmer incomes, and creating sustainable rural communities across Mindanao. Further details about eligibility and application procedures will be disseminated through local agricultural offices and partner organizations.
This initiative aligns with the Marcos Jr. administration's broader agenda of modernizing the Philippine agriculture sector and ensuring a stable and affordable food supply for all Filipinos. The success of the APP Program will be closely monitored, and adjustments will be made as needed to maximize its impact on the lives of Mindanao farmers.
