SOME P1.822 million worth of farm machinery were distributed to different farmer associations in Conner, Apayao on March 12 by the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera (DA-CAR).

The distribution of the machinery is part of DA’s special project, Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD), which aims to boost the livelihood of farmer beneficiaries in its coverage areas.

Among those distributed were one four-wheel drive tractor, one multi-purpose thresher, and one hand tractor. These were awarded to the Nabuagan Region Livelihood and Farmers Association.

Another multi-purpose corn sheller, and a hand tractor were awarded to Calaoan Livelihood and Farmers Association.

The turnover ceremony was attended by DA-CAR regional executive director Narciso Edillo, Conner Mayor Leanardo Dangoy, municipal administrator Nicholas Abawag, municipal agriculturist Corazon Gasmeña and the officers and representatives of the farmer associations.

“Distribution of farm machinery is a continuing program of the DA. The farmers are major partners of the agency in ensuring food security. We are having this activity as part of our continuing support to the efforts of farmers in this venture,” said Edillo.

Aside from the machinery, Edillo also briefed the farmers on the different programs of the DA such as the Production Loan Easy Access (PLEA), seed multiplication, multiplier farm, Sloping Agricultural Land Technology (SALT) among others.

He encouraged the farmers to continue farming and make Conner, Apayao food self-sufficient through mechanization. (Herman Danis)