The PhP 11 million-worth coffee consolidation, processing and marketing enterprise subproject of the Aliwes Irrigators’ Association, Inc. (AIAI) based in Mainit, Bontoc, Mountain Province, was formally turned over to them today, April 4, 2024.

Implemented through the Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP), the enterprise subproject includes a newly completed coffee processing facility in Mainit, completed in December 2023. Additionally, it encompasses a two-ton capacity hauling truck, various coffee-making tools and equipment, and a working capital of PhP288,000.00.

The turnover ceremony was led by Bontoc Mayor Jerome C. Tudlong, Provincial Administrator Franklin Odsey, and DA-CAR Regional Technical Directors (RTD) Engr. Danilo P. Daguio and Dr. Arlene Sagayo. Officials, department heads and staff from the DA and LGU, AIAI members and barangay officials also graced the event.

Upon receiving the turnover certificate, enterprise manager Rosalina Malafo and AIAI President Luisa Salingbay conveyed their heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and agencies who supported them from the proposal stage through to completion.

“Pirmi en yaman mi kachakayo. On behalf of Aliwes, I accept this project. Amu mi nga ado pay kasapulan mi to improve our coffee processing ket haan kayo kuma nga mauma nga mangtulong kadakami (We are very thankful to all of you. On behalf of Aliwes, I accept this project. We know that we have a lot to learn to improve our coffee peocessing and we hope that you won’t get tired in helping us),” said Malafo.

Mayor Tudlong extended his congratulations to AIAI for the successful completion of their enterprise, affirming the municipality’s commitment to providing further assistance for its continued success.
“Now that this enterprise has been completed, the challenge now is for this to be a success. The success of this enterprise will have a big impact not only to Mainit but Bontoc as a whole,” the mayor said.

In his message, RTD Engr. Daguio issued a gentle reminder to AIAI, emphasizing the importance of upholding their commitments outlined in the Implementing Management Agreement (IMA).

“Let’s remain conscientious about our obligations and commitments outlined in the IMA. Now that this has been officially turned over to you, let’s maintain our collaborative efforts towards fulfilling our objectives,” said RTD Daguio.

He further advised the association to give importance to their coffee plantation, explore additional avenues to sustain and enhance production, broaden their membership base, and contemplate transitioning their association into a cooperative.
Representatives from various agencies also extended their congratulations to AIAI for successfully completing their project and shared insights on ensuring its sustainability.

Guests from several agencies also expressed their congratulations to AIAI for the completion of their project and shared some insights for the sustainability of their project.

The event concluded with the blessing of the coffee processing facility as well as the officers and members of AIAI.