By Elvy T. Estacio, RPCO-CAR Writer

The Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Regional Project Coordination Office-CAR (RPCO-CAR), through its I-PLAN Component, facilitated a training on the enhanced Climate-Resilient Agro-Industry Oriented Value Chain Analysis (iVCA) from August 14 to 15, in Baguio City.

Integrating a gender-sensitive approach into the value chain processes, the training intended to strengthen the capacity of the DA-CAR regional core planning team, banner program coordinators, and report officers in preparation for the integration of the value chain approach into investment planning within the DA.

Dr. Susan D. Balanza, I-PLAN component head and PMED chief, emphasized the training’s goal to improve participants’ understanding and skills in developing VCAs.

“The goal is to produce localized VCAs specific to the Cordillera and with this training, we aim to elevate our understanding of VCA to a level where we can craft VCAs for various commodities. The next step will involve hands-on practice and detailed discussions on each VCA chapter,” Dr. Balanza said

She noted that the VCA preparation was enhanced integrating climate risk resiliency and gender sensitivity to ensure more inclusive and responsive interventions.

The training included sessions on the iVCA introduction, its preparation processes, VC segments, VC upgrading strategies, conducting stakeholder consultations, and the VCA review and approval process. These sessions were delivered by the RPCO-CAR I-PLAN Component’s Capacity Development Team.

At the end of the training, participants were grouped into three teams, each assigned to develop VCAs for rice, heirloom rice, and livestock. This division is designed to ensure a focused and comprehensive approach to crafting tailored value chain analyses for these key commodities. As they move forward, the teams will apply the skills and knowledge gained to enhance local agricultural strategies and support the region’s climate resilience and gender inclusivity goals. ###