CEBU CITY, Cebu, Feb. 22 (PIA) -- The Farm and Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation Program (F2C2) of the Department of Agriculture aims to improve the lives of farmers and fisherfolks.

It aims to address problems of the agriculture and fishing sector such as the lack of access to credit and capital, modern farming and fishery methods, farm mechanization, postharvest and processing facilities, markets, infrastructure, transport and logistics, packaging support, and information and communication technologies.

The Cluster Development Plan(CDP) is the masterplan for the growth and development of the cluster through its business enterprise.

It is a comprehensive, long-term plan that addresses the clusters’ needs for marketing; improvement in productivity, operation, and organization development; financing; and sustainability.

Clustering of farmers and fishers would mean unified management or production activities, sourcing inputs, access to financing, processing, logistics, storage, marketing, and would result in enhanced quality of produce. 

Dr. Zeam Voltair Amper of DA7 disclosed that there are 50 beneficiary clusters in Bohol and Negros Oriental for Region 7.

To avail of the projects offered under F2C2, the DA has set the minimum clustered area at 100 hectares for rice/palay, fruit trees, perennials, and fiber crops; 75 hectares for corn and other grains; and 50 hectares for vegetables and high-value crops.

In the case of fisheries and aquaculture, their cluster must have community-based production zones or processing facilities or community fishpond leases.

Clustered farms will also receive other assistance such as scholarships and distance learning programs for young farmers. (MYP/PIA7)