Elevating Agriculture: Batangas' Comprehensive Growth Initiatives for 2024

 Bolstering Agricultural Growth: Batangas Province's Ambitious Plans for 2024

The provincial government of Batangas is determined to elevate agricultural productivity in the coming year through the expansion of programs aimed at enhancing the overall capabilities of farmers and fisherfolk. Dr. Rod Bautista, head of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg), revealed in a New Year's Day interview with the Philippine News Agency that the province has collaborated with various government agencies to achieve its goals for 2024.

Governor Hermilando Mandanas has spearheaded the Provincial Agricultural and Fisheries Extension Systems (PAFES), focusing on programs dedicated to coconut development, "kapeng barako" branding, the yellow corn project, and livestock, among others. PAFES aims to strengthen collaboration between the Department of Agriculture (DA), local government units, the academe, and the private sector, bringing extension services to the grassroots level despite the challenges of devolution.

A major project in the pipeline is the proposed fish port in San Pascual-Batangas. Dr. Bautista shared that site inspections have been conducted in collaboration with the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority and other consultants. The construction is set to commence either this month or in February, with a target completion date before the end of 2024. The project, deemed feasible, holds promise as Batangas serves as the gateway to Regions 6 (Western Visayas) and 7 (Central Visayas), with potential future development into a food terminal.

In addition, the provincial government recently inaugurated a training center named "Hubugan ng Isipan ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda" (Molding the Minds of Farmers and Fisherfolk) in Batangas City. OPAg aims to enhance the technical know-how of local farmers and fishermen by providing additional training and knowledge for high-value crops in collaboration with the Agricultural Training Institute.

The province is also keen on advancing the corn industry in response to the high demand for yellow corn by Batangas' livestock sector. Dr. Bautista acknowledges the impact of the closure of Central Azucarera Don Pedro, Inc. (CADPI) in Nasugbu. The provincial government, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture-Calabarzon (DA-4A), encourages sugarcane farmers to transition to corn, facilitating market connections for producers.

Furthermore, the provincial government has entered a memorandum of agreement with the Philippine Coconut Authority for the use of lands in San Juan town for coconut seedling production. Dr. Bautista is optimistic that this development will increase coconut production in the province. Additionally, another property along the shoreline, dedicated to salt production, will be developed in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

Baguio's Resilient Entrepreneurs: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunities through DTI's Kapatid Mentor Me Program

 In Baguio City, small businesses that commenced operations just before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic are optimistic about enhanced prospects, particularly after undergoing capacity-building training provided by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Guil Ocampo, a young entrepreneur in his mid-30s who manages a coffee shop along Session Road, expresses hope for a promising year ahead. He attributes his positive outlook to recent favorable indicators and the valuable management and financial preparation training received through DTI's "Kapatid Mentor Me" (KMM) program.

According to Ocampo, the KMM training significantly transformed the dynamics of his business by teaching him how to assess daily sales in the context of long-term scenarios. Mastering financial reporting, interpretation, and adeptly navigating business operations to avoid issues with government regulatory bodies were highlighted as crucial takeaways. He emphasizes that confidence in managing the business effectively has been a significant confidence boost.

Ocampo enrolled in the KMM program in 2022 when facing potential losses, realizing the necessity for additional knowledge. Having resigned from employment to start a business, he saw his life savings depleted from opening a cafe and relocating to another Session Road site.

In February 2020, Ocampo and his friends launched their business in a hotel near Wright Park, capitalizing on the potential of a coffee-related venture. However, a month later, a nationwide lockdown forced immediate closure.

Despite challenges, Ocampo adapted by offering delivery services in the absence of dine-in clients. The pandemic taught him the importance of cooperation and collaboration with other businesses. His coffee shop's current location, initially a drop-off area for cosplay items, now houses a board game-friendly cafe and a space for cosplayers to showcase and sell their costumes.

Similarly, Florence Aquino and her sister opened a mini grocery in 2021 at the ground floor of their family residence in Irisan. Having previously operated a small milk tea and fruit shop at the university belt in January 2020, the pandemic also affected their business. Aquino attended the KMM training in 2022, recognizing its value in gaining insights into the future while standing in the present.

Samuel Gallardo, assistant director of DTI-Cordillera, underscores the significance of the KMM program as a regular activity aimed at nurturing entrepreneurship. Implemented with the assistance of private sector stakeholders serving as mentors, the program provides comprehensive training free of charge, covering essential aspects of starting, managing, and improving businesses.