Apayao pushes unified farm planning in Provincial–Congressional Dialogue

Farmers and agricultural groups in Apayao stand to gain from a more coordinated approach to planning and support following the Joint Provincial–Congressional Dialogue held on February 19, 2026 at the Aliwa Gymnasium in Luna.

The dialogue brought together farmers’ cooperatives, Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs), and Irrigators Associations with national and provincial leaders to align programs, funding, and priorities for the province’s agriculture sector. The activity was organized by the Office of the Congresswoman in partnership with the Provincial Government of Apayao (PGA), with facilitation from the Provincial Office for Agricultural Services (POAS).

National agencies present included the Department of Agriculture–CAR led by Regional Technical Director Danilo Daguio, the Department of Agrarian Reform represented by Central Office Director Artemio Dumaoang, as well as PhilMech, NIA, BFAR, CDA, DTI, DOLE, DOST, DSWD, TESDA, and other DA units.

Cong. Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang said she has consistently pushed for Apayao to become a regular member of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF). She thanked stakeholders for helping secure the province’s inclusion, which opens access to sustained support for rice and corn farmers and regular funding for agricultural interventions. She also encouraged farmers to strengthen and consolidate their organizations into active cooperatives. “Fewer but stronger organizations with clear direction and accountability will produce more output and better results,” she said.

Board Member Rosario Labueng Jr., Chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Agriculture, assured farmers of continued support from both the DA and the provincial government. He shared plans to identify priority crops per municipality so the PLGU can directly purchase produce, helping reduce reliance on middlemen and stabilize farmers’ income.

Labueng also disclosed that a Taiwanese investor has committed to supporting the province’s hog industry, with the PLGU backing the construction of hog facilities in different municipalities. The investor is also looking to source local corn and establish a feeds factory in Apayao.

During the open dialogue, farmers raised concerns on commodity prices, registries, and production challenges, which were addressed by the agencies present. The meeting ended with a clear direction to align programs, concentrate resources, and make agricultural development more responsive to the needs of farmers in Apayao.