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Western Visayas remains ASF, bird flu-free; agricultural advancement still eyed

ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- Western Visayas remains as African Swine Fever (ASF) and bird flu or avian influenza- free.

This was highlighted by former Department of Agriculture 6 director Remelyn Recoter, who is now the Agricultural Training Institute OIC director, in a press conference held here, Sept. 23, where she reported the DA 6 accomplishments during her term. 

Recoter stressed that strengthening of partnership between and among DA, Local Government Units (LGUs), and the private sector in guarding the respective borders of the other regions may help them mitigate the cases of ASF and bird flu in their area. 

She also lauded all the efforts of all the entities involved in making the endeavor possible.

“With Western Visayas having several entry points, we really recognize and appreciate the efforts of our LGUs for really guarding the borders from the entry of the prohibited products from other affected areas,” she said.

As for the agricultural advancements, it could still be noted that Western Visayas ranks third as palay producing region in the country next to Central Luzon and Cagayan Valley.

Based on the report, the yield for palay commodity is further seen to increase by 2023 with the full operation of Jalaur River Irrigation Project by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

According to Recoter, despite the current ratio of 40% irrigated and 60% rain-fed

areas in the region that decreases the yield performance and threat in the increase of volume of production because of less fertilizer utilization, its high potential is rather notable.

“We also encourage diversification and an integrated farming system. Apart from monocropping rice, there should at least be vegetable production, swine and poultry raising, so that in times of calamities, our farmers would become resilient. They can also engage in coffee and cacao production given there is opportunity and space to diversify,” added Recoter.

Starting her stint as the newly-designated OIC-director of ATI national office, Recoter said she already views that there are already several innovations under its umbrella since the programs and projects are being framed in the call of the time, particularly on the needs of every sector.

“There will still be capability development programs, training and extension for different commodities, and also great encouragement to the young farmers and expose them to exchange programs in technologically-advanced countries specifically for smart greenhouse or smart agriculture. Once they return, they will be helped to create a start-up through the support of ATI and Agricultural Credit Policy Council,” she noted.

Meanwhile, she lauded the media who partnered with the DA in communicating relevant information to the public for six years under her leadership.

Following Recoter's designation as OIC-director of ATI, the DA 6 is currently under the leadership of Dr. Peter S. Sobrevega, who is serving as OIC- Regional Executive Director. (JBG/April Grace Padilla/PIA6)

About the Author

Jemin Guillermo, J.D.

Officer-in-Charge

Region 11

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