By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the scorching sun of Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, local farmers and fisherfolk gathered eagerly on October 23, 2025, as government agencies set up information booths and conducted live demonstrations on agricultural and fisheries programs.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) – Philippines, together with its bureaus, attached agencies, and government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), organized the National Information Caravan to bring government services closer to the people and help farmers access support more easily. Among the participants was the Fisheries Patrollers Association (FPA), which joined the outreach to share resources and practical tips for local fisherfolk.
During the event, attendees learned about the latest agricultural technologies, crop and livestock support programs, fisheries management initiatives, and financial assistance available to rural communities. Experts from DA and partner agencies conducted workshops, answered questions, and provided guidance on applying for programs such as farm mechanization, animal health services, and sustainable fishing practices.
The National Information Caravan is part of DA’s ongoing “One DA” initiative, which aims to unify the department’s efforts and make its programs more accessible and transparent to farmers and fisherfolk nationwide. By bringing services directly to local communities, the government hopes to reduce barriers to participation, promote modern farming techniques, and improve livelihoods across the country.
Farmers expressed appreciation for the event, saying it gave them a clearer understanding of government support and the tools they can use to increase productivity. One rice farmer noted that having experts on-site made it easier to address questions about crop management and government aid applications.
The DA emphasized that events like this are not only informational but also motivational, encouraging rural communities to adopt best practices in agriculture and fisheries while taking advantage of available programs to improve their income and sustainability.
With initiatives like the National Information Caravan, the government continues to strengthen the connection between policymakers and grassroots communities, ensuring that Filipino farmers and fisherfolk can thrive in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News