Agriculture and Biosystems Engineer Nur Tasneem Sali emphasized the agriculture situation in the city, revealing that a market survey conducted in 2019 indicated that Isabela City imported 95.23% of its vegetables, despite the fact that 18 varieties could be cultivated locally. She further highlighted that the pandemic had led to the closure of businesses and a halt in importation, prompting a need to focus on local production and food self-sufficiency.

During a presentation, OPAG OIC Alexis Cotales represented the OIC Provincial Agriculturist, Dr. Surhayda Aguisanda, and presented the Basilan Agricultural Development Plan. The plan encompasses four major flagship programs, which are focused on the development of the rubber industry, coconut sector, food security, and fishery resources. These programs aim to enhance and promote sustainable growth in these key agricultural sectors within the province of Basilan.

As the Head of the Integrated Provincial Project and Assistance Office (IPPAO) and the Director of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Management Office (AMOs) at the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), Olie Dagala emphasizes the role of Mindanao agriculture as a catalyst for economic growth and recognizes that agriculture plays a vital role in the economy of Mindanao, which can contribute significantly to the overall economic development of the country.

Olive Puentespina, the owner of Malagos Cheese, has shared insights on market trends and linkages in agriculture. As a prominent figure in the agricultural industry, Puentespina has a deep understanding of the market dynamics and the importance of establishing strong linkages within the sector.

Pacita Juan, the Chairperson of the Philippine Coffee Board, Inc., has discussed KAPEsabela as the future of Isabela Coffee. KAPEsabela is a project that focuses on promoting and developing the coffee industry in the province of Isabela.

Juan recognizes the potential of Isabela as a coffee-growing region and believes that KAPEsabela can play a vital role in harnessing this potential and envisions a future where Isabela becomes renowned for its coffee production.

Engr. Kristel Mantigue, the Planning Officer of the Department of Agriculture (DA) IX, is responsible for discussing and implementing the department’s plans and programs, which encompass areas such as agricultural productivity enhancement, sustainable agriculture practices, market access and development, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and farmer’s welfare and development in Region IX. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)