With the adverse impact of climate change in Ilocos Norte, the provincial government intensifies its efforts in addressing the issues faced by the farming communities caused by severe drought.
Through its flagship agriculture program dubbed as ‘Paspas Dur-as Biag ti Away!’ the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) visits various agricultural communities in the province to identify the main problems and needs of farmers.
‘Paspas Dur-as Biag ti Away!’ (rapid development in the rural areas) was launched on November 2015 and integrated with the conduct of Manang Imee’s Capitol Express, PGIN’s roving one-stop-shop which brings the frontline services to different cities and municipalities in the province.
It is focused on enhancing the quality of agriculture in the province by providing support to Ilocano farmers as well as improving farming practices across the province.
According to Governor Imee Marcos, PGIN ensures that various farmers associations in the province are given agricultural products and equipment including seeds, tractors, water pumps, backpack sprayers that would enhance their productivity.
ABC President of Pasuquin Chino Aguinaldo, one of the recipients of water pumps and backpack sprayers, thanked Governor Imee Marcos for her efforts to help the farmers.
“We thank her for prioritizing the welfare of the farmers. These will be a great help to the farmers in our barangay since the primary source of livelihood here in Pasuquin comes from farming,” he said in Ilocano.
Noting that drought may further threaten numerous communities that rely on farming, Gov. Marcos added that PGIN continues to partner with different institutions in formulating measures to address the phenomenon’s adverse impacts in the province.
Moreover, PGIN is also working on the development and improvement of agricultural infrastructure such as small farm reservoirs, small water impounding projects and diversion dams.
Last November 2014, PGIN launched the first Water Summit which sought the development of a massive watershed throughout the province thus improving water supply management. The second Water Summit will be held on March 22, 2016.
“We have enjoined both public and private sectors to take part in our advocacy in building a sustainable and resilient community. Our Provincial Resiliency Council has intensified its information dissemination regarding disaster preparedness as well as our promotion of environment-friendly practices which includes water conservation and planting high value crops,” Gov. Marcos said.—Jennifer T. Pambid, PGIN-CMO
