In a bid to build Project awareness among information and communication networks across the Caraga region, the DA – Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) Caraga InfoACE unit spearheaded a two-day expository tour for fourteen of its media partners from November 6 – 7, 2024.

The tour aims to highlight the impact these subprojects have had on the lives of beneficiaries and their respective communities by providing media practitioners with first-hand exposure to completed DA-PRDP subprojects, 

‘We consider media practitioners throughout Caraga to be our partners. Through this tour, they are able to have personal interactions with our beneficiary farmers and fisherfolk and can see for themselves the accomplishments and gains resulting from DA-PRDP support,’ said InfoACE Unit Head Emmylou T. Presilda.

Throughout the two-day expository tour, media partners gained first-hand knowledge of the accomplishments, milestones, and operations of two completed enterprise subprojects in the region. This includes the best practices in producing quality Robusta coffee, gleaned through a visit to the Green Coffee Beans Production and Marketing subproject managed by the Casiklan Wheels Farmers Association Inc. (CAWFAI) in Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte. 

Processes in seaweed production were also discussed by the People Unite to Guard Aqua Marine Wealth Inc. (PUGAW Inc), the Proponent Group managing the Seaweeds Production and Marketing subproject in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

‘[Through this tour], I was able to see for myself the dedication these associations have in sustaining their enterprises, and their continuing efforts in uplifting their communities,’ said Manuel Egay, Jr., Correspondent for Netz TV Karaga. ‘It is evident that the support from DA-PRDP and various agencies has led to progress for these groups.’

Strong and enduring partnerships with media practitioners in the region continue to be a priority for the Department of Agriculture, particularly in disseminating information on the agency’s various initiatives and programs.

‘We hope to be able to schedule other activities like this as there are still a lot of initiatives we would like to highlight. We want to show our partners what the DA is working on to help our farmers and promote our commodities in the region,’ said Regional Executive Director Arlan M. Mangelen.

The Information, Advocacy, Communication, and Education (InfoACE) unit is the communication arm of the DA – Philippine Rural Development Project. (Nichole Talatala, RPCO 13)