DAVAO — A partnership of government agencies is strengthening the agricultural skills of farmers here through a comprehensive training program. The Farmers Field School on Vegetable Production is equipping members of the Cocornon Irrigators Association with modern techniques to build resilient livelihoods.
A 16-Week Journey to Better Farming
The training, which began on July 29, 2026, is a 16-week program designed to transform how local farmers approach agriculture. Participants are learning modern vegetable production methods that adapt to the realities of climate change. This hands-on education aims to make their farming more productive and sustainable.
A site visit and monitoring activity on August 20, 2026, allowed partner agencies to assess the program's progress. The initiative is a collaboration between the DSWD Field Office XI, the Agricultural Training Institute, the Municipal Agriculture Office, the National Irrigation Administration, and the Barangay Local Government Unit.
Tackling Food Security and Climate Change
Project LAWA at BINHI directly addresses the twin challenges of food insecurity and climate vulnerability. LAWA, or Local Adaptation to Water Access, focuses on building water security through small farm reservoirs and improved irrigation. This ensures that farms can survive severe dry spells and remain productive.
BINHI, which stands for Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished, promotes local food production. It encourages community vegetable gardens and nutrition-sensitive farming. Together, these initiatives create a comprehensive approach to building self-reliant and food-secure communities.
The "Cash-for-Training" Approach
The program employs a cash-for-work and cash-for-training scheme to support participants. Farmers receive financial assistance to meet their immediate needs while investing time in learning. This dual approach ensures that they can fully focus on acquiring new skills without financial distress.
This method recognizes that vulnerable communities often cannot sacrifice work time for training. By providing support, the DSWD ensures that no farmer is left behind. The goal is to create a pathway out of poverty through sustainable agriculture.
A Model for Sustainable Livelihoods
The Farmers Field School in Cocornon is a model for how multi-agency collaboration can empower rural communities. The training equips farmers with the knowledge to adapt to environmental challenges. It also strengthens their ability to turn agriculture into a viable and lasting livelihood.
The site visit on August 20 confirmed that the program is on track. The progress made by the farmers demonstrates the power of targeted, community-based interventions. DSWD XI continues to champion these initiatives as vital tools for national food security and poverty reduction.
