by Mark Anthony M. Gallibu (RPCO2 Writer)

The Department of Agriculture Philippine Rural Development Project (DA PRDP) Regional Project Coordination Office No. 2 on April 15, 2024 turned over 31.1 million PHP worth of assistance to boost the Tilapia Fingerlings Production and Marketing Enterprise to the Santiago Amos Credit and Development Cooperative (SACDECO), Purok 4, Bray. Rizal, Santiago City, Isabela.

The proponent group will produce and sell Sex-Reversed Tilapia Fingerlings with size No.17 and No. 20 under the enterprise to cooperative members involved in tilapia grow-out production.

Isabela 4th District Representative Joseph Tan said that this collaboration will not stop here and guaranteed that support will always be available through his office.

During his tenure as chief executive, Tan was instrumental in funding various PRDP-funded projects, such as farm-to-market roads, peanut economic enterprise, and other infrastructure. “One of the priority projects of the city government is livelihood, or kabuhayan; that is why we really support this enterprise.”

SACDECO is leading this undertaking as part of the Department of Philippine Rural Development Project, marking a significant milestone in their community service trajectory. This enterprise embodies a deeper significance beyond its commercial nature; it represents the convergence of modernity and tradition, in addition to the integration of sustainable environmental practices and economic expansion.

In her speech, DA PRDP RPCO 2 Deputy Project Director Kay Olives stated that the cooperative should always monitor the income of the said enterprise in order to succeed. Representing Regional Executive Director Rose Mary G. Aquino, Olivas delivered the speech, highlighting that “this enterprise, which operates under the I-REAP Subproject’s, serves as an inspiration and opportunity for the local community. The organization’s goal is unambiguous: to improve Tilapia Fingerlings’ manufacturing and promotion capacities, thereby improving the standard of living for many people in their community.”

Alyssa Sheena Tan, mayor of Santiago City, thanked the DA for helping the city thrive in its agricultural landscape. She said the programs and projects complement what their local government unit is doing. The lady mayor added that she will give her 100 percent support and will continue to collaborate with the DA PRDP.

Meanwhile, SACDECO former general manager, Fernando Fajardo assured that the coop would support the enterprise. “With the help of every member and the guidance of the PRDP, especially the I-REAP component and LGU, we will ensure that the objectives of the enterprise will be realized.”