Message of the Regional Executive Director 3bicol.da.gov.ph/rfo5newweb/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DA_Bicol_AnnualReport2016.pdfBicol region still managed to provide various agricultural

2016 Annual ReportDEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RFO 5

Message of the Regional Executive Director 3Highlights of Accomplishment 4

DIVISIONS Field Operations Division 11 Banner Programs Rice Program 11 Corn Development Program 17 High Value Crops Development Program 23 Livestock Development Program 27 Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division 33 Organic Agriculture Program 33 Regulatory Division 42 Research Division Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Division Administrative and Finance Division Integrated Laboratories Division Regional Agricultural Engineering Division Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Section

LOCALLY FUNDED PROJECTS Bottom Up Budgeting (BuB) 66 Farm to Market Roads (FMRs) 68 Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) 69

FOREIGN ASSISTED PROJECTS Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) 70 Bicol Agri Water Project (BAWP) 76

RESEARCH OUTREACH STATIONS 79 Central Bicol Experiment Station 79 Albay Research and Development Center 81 Sorsogon Dairy Production and Technology Center 82 Camarines Norte Lowland Rainfed Research Station 83 Masbate Center for Livestock Development 84 Catanduanes Hilly Upland Development Station 85 Gender and Development (GAD) 86National Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development 91Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council 92

Gallery of Achievers 96DA 5 Management and Key Officials 99

45 52 56 58 62 64

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The year 2016 started with a sense of uncertainty as the country prepared for the presidential election and an inevitable change in national and local leadership. The Filipinos were again divided. Some government activities or projects have to be deferred, shelved or slowed down in deference to election guidelines set.

But despite these, the Department of Agriculture Bicol performed its mandate by aggressively implementing the various banner programs and special projects. Despite the occurrence of El Niño and typhoons which either directly or indirectly hit the region it registered a modest growth on the over-all production performance and attained 116% rice self-sufficiency. Bicol was among the regions which posted a positive growth rate both in palay and corn and Bicol rose a notch higher from 6th place to 5th place as the largest producer of palay in the country and inched and ranked 7th in corn production. The high value crops development program was also vigorously pursued giving focus on value adding activities and establishment of postharvest and processing facilities that will ensure production of quality products that conformed with safety and standards.

For the livestock program our efforts were geared towards increasing the population of genetically improved livestock and poultry animals resulting to an increase in growth rate of 4.41% for goat, 3.12% for cattle; .40% for carabao; 5. 49% for chicken; and 9.14% for duck eggs. The establishment of 14 multiplier farms spread out in the 6 provinces and even in SUCs contributed greatly to this positive growth in the livestock sector.

Support to organic agriculture was also sustained and strengthened through provision of traditional rice seeds, OPV corn seeds, vegetable seeds, vermi worms, Bio-N, organic fertilizers and composting facilities. The Organic Agriculture program personnel intensified its campaign and assistance to farmers applying for 3rd party certification.

Even with the change of leadership and a shift in priorities by the new DA management under the helm of Secretary Manny Piñol, DA Bicol was able to adjust easily and well. After all, resiliency is one of the traits Bicolanos are well known for.

Despite the 11% reduction in our budget we still managed to provide various agricultural inputs and other goods and services to our farmers and LGUs. We forged partnership with other government agencies and private groups to support our various programs. One of which is our partnership with the LGU and 13 seed companies and government research institutions in the 20-hectare compact techno demo on hybrid rice production in Polangui, Albay. This culminated in the holding of the National Rice techno-forum right in the said municipality attended by over 3,000 farmers and other agri-stakeholders.

Public and private partnership proved to be a very effective strategy for achieving a shared and common goal for our farmers and agri- stake holders. Moreover, the use of traditional as well as modern or science and technology-based approaches, technologies and farm equipment with the active participation of our farmers could really help increase production as well as empower farmers.

The accomplishments contained in this annual report is the result of the combined efforts of the program coordinators, divisions and section chiefs, focal persons and all the staff and personnel of the DA family who have shared their efforts, ideas, time and even criticisms. I also acknowledge the energy and enthusiasm of the various agri-fishery stakeholders – farmers and fishers, private sector entrepreneurs, civil society groups and non government organizations, local government officials and agricultural extension workers. The guidance and direction given by our top officials headed by our secretary and other policy makers are likewise very much appreciated.

ELENA B. DE LOS SANTOS, Ph.D. Regional Executive Director



The year 2016 was again a very challenging year for the agriculture sector in Bicol. With a budget of P 1,479,325,000 the Department of Agriculture, Regional Field Office No. 5 aggressively implemented the Programs and registered modest growth on the over-all regional production

HIGHLIGHTS OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS

performance and attained rice sufficiency of 116.27% despite the occurrence of El Niño Phenomenon and the numerous typhoons and other calamities that brought heavy flooding in many low lying production areas. In fact, Bicol Region is among the regions that posted a positive growth rate both in palay 0.87% and corn 6.34%. This significantly placed Bicol as the 5th largest producer of palay in the country and contributed 7.24% or 275,492MT to the national production. As for corn production, the region inched and ranked 7th as major corn producer and registered 3.6% shares to the national corn production contributing 259,375 MT of corn in terms of volume of production.

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HIGHLIGHTS OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS

and post-harvest processing machineries, equipment and facilities. Likewise, the construction and rehabilitation of Small Scale Irrigation projects (SSIP) opened 170 hectares new areas and restored more than 460 hectares of rice areas benefitting a total of 852 rice farmers. The SSIPs also helped irrigate farms planted with high value crops particularly vegetables.

Despite the 11% reduction in the department’s budget, Bicol region still managed to provide various agricultural inputs and other goods and services to 36,957 individual farmers. A total of 1,154 farmers’ organizations also received different agricultural production

the crops against the effects of prolonged dry spell to crop production particularly during the 1st semester of 2016.

The provision of affordable agricultural machineries without or with minimal farmer’s equity through the Farm Mechanization program helped

For the last 5 years, the budget for the implementation of Irrigation Network Services in the region has been increasing considerably. The opera t iona l i za t i on of SSIPs cushioned



increase farmers’ productivity. The proper and efficient use of modern facilities optimized the utilization of farm lands and labor productivity which also contributed in increasing farmers' yield and income. Furthermore, the implementation of High Yielding Technology Adoption (HYTA) Technology Demonstration and the initial implementation of Rice Productivity Enhancement (RIPE) Program in major producing municipalities encouraged rice farmers to shift from Certified Seeds into Hybrid Seeds utilization thereby optimizing farmers’ productivity. Rice farmers were also encouraged to practice precision fertilization and to utilize soil ameliorants. Likewise, the successful conduct of the National Rice Technology Forum in a 20-hectare compact Techno Demo of Hybrid Rice in Albay showed that rice sufficiency could be attained thru hybrid technology.

Sustaining a positive growth in corn production has been a big challenge to the region. For the past years budget allocation on corn program increased considerably paving the way to the introduction of farm mechanization to corn farmers. Various farm and post-harvest equipment and machineries as well as drying and storage facilities were provided to farmer’s organizations engaged in corn production. The operationalization of Village Type Dryer in major corn producing municipalities particularly those within the corn cluster areas encouraged more farmers to venture into corn farming. Farm machineries like the 4Wheel Drive tractors were made available to farmers through the Local Government Units and to cooperatives/farmers associations involved either in corn or cassava production.

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As to HVCDP interventions, aside from the provision of production support services such as assorted vegetables seeds and planting materials of different fruit trees, the program also focused on value adding activities and establishment of postharvest and processing facilities that will ensure the production of quality products that conformed to product safety and standards. The program has also reactivated some of the 37 Barangay Food Terminals (BFT) with the provision of farm equipment/machineries and postharvest facilities. Likewise, to ensure continuous supply of planting materials within the region, series of training on Plant Nursey Establishment and Plant Material Accreditation and Certification were conducted and resulted to the accreditation of four (4) plant nurseries in Bicol (Albay-1; Camarines Sur 3).



Efforts of the Livestock program were geared towards increasing the population of genetically improved livestock and poultry animals. For the last 5 years, the region showed positive trends for almost all types of livestock and poultry animals. This year’s growth rate was posted at 4.41% for goat, Cattle at 3.12% and 0.40% for carabao, while a dip of 1.67% in hog was noted. As for poultry, increment was also noted in chicken with growth rate of 5.49% and duck eggs at 9.14%. To sustain the increment in animal production, the program was persistent in providing various interventions such as artificial insemination for quality and superior stocks, distribution of drugs and biologics for disease prevention and planting materials (Napier) for adequate forage supply. The Animal Laboratory Services for animal disease diagnostic and animal feed analysis are also fully operational to forefront the prevention and control of animal diseases and ensure feed quality for the livestock and poultry.

Bicol region maintained its foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) free status as well as avian or bird flu-free status for almost a decade now. This was made possible with the strict implementation of regulatory quarantine rules at entry points, close monitoring and Sero-surveillance (collecting blood samples) for negative FMD and avian influenza, conduct of massive advocacy and information drive among animal raisers and farmers for animal disease prevention.

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Over the past years since Organic Agriculture Act of 2011 was signed and fully implemented, organic agriculture has gained its ground in the region. Around 23,209 hectares are devoted to organic farming and almost 5,000 hectares are 3rd party certified with 67,960 metric tons total volume of production. To sustain, strengthen and stimulate further the conversion of traditional farms into organic farms, the program continues providing traditional rice seeds, OPV corn seeds, vegetable seeds, Bio-N, African night crawlers, organic fertilizers, composting facilities to farmers, benefitting 140 farmers this year and 12 organizations as recipients of composting facilities.

To contribute to food security, 14 Multiplier Farms were established in the six (6) DA Research Outreach Stations and with 4 SUCs. Each multiplier farm consisted of animals such as goats, native chicken, ducks and native pig. Aside from these animals, housing were also provided. These multiplier farms will serve as the source of quality stocks for the next in-line beneficiary and would create livelihood opportunities, generate jobs and spur rural development. It can invigorate the livestock industry by promoting enterprise development thereby providing added income for the raisers.



Consumer awareness, promotions and capacity building of organic stakeholders successfully linked the stakeholders, producers and consumers to growing local markets and increased the acceptance and consumption of locally produced organic products. These resulted to increasing demand for organic products thereby opening new markets for organic.

The exemplary contributions and unwavering support of various stakeholders to the implementation of RA 10068 were also recognized during the conduct of the National/Regional Organic Agriculture Achievers. Seventy-five percent (75%) of the entries of the region in the Search for Organic Agriculture Achievers Awards were national finalists and the Agri-Planters and Food Processors Association of Tigaon (TAPFPAT) –Group Category bagged the National award and received a plaque of recognition and a check amounting to P500,000.00 as project grant.

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RICE

Banner ProgramsField Operations Division

For CY 2016, the national palay production contracted by 522,593 MT or 2.88% from previous year’s production of 18,149,838 MT. The decline was caused by the devastating effect of El Niño and several super typhoons that crossed the country.

Production performance in terms of volume of production shows that only five (5) regions namely, Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, Bicol and ARMM were able to post a positive growth. Bicol Region for instance registered an additional 11,044MT of palay that placed Bicol as the 5th largest producer in the Philippines contributing 7.17% of the national production.

Likewise the region also recorded the second highest increment of 3.44% or 11,782 hectares in terms of area harvested. For the last five years the region was able to generate an additional of 35,728 hectares of rice land and therefore sustained its rice sufficiency.

program



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Despite the occurrence of calamities, the regional rice industry situation showed an expanded 0.87% volume of production from 1,264,448MT in 2015 to 1,275,492 MT this year. The increase can be attributed to the various interventions provided under the production support services but major contributory is the construction and rehabilitation of small scale irrigation facilities. For the last 5 years, 369 units of different types of SSIPs were distributed, constructed or rehabilitated and managed by Irrigators Associations and other farmers’ organizations.

These interventions were given priority particularly in the province of Camarines Sur which received 180 units of SSIPs being the major rice producing province in the region with more than 180,583 hectares rice land. Camarines Sur contributed 79% or 9,339 hectares increase in area harvested followed by Catanduanes with 972 hectares and Camarines Norte with 851 hectares.

Province Production (MT)GrowthRate (%)

Area Harvested(Hectare)

Incre-ment (Ha.)

Yield/Ha.(MT)

Yield/Ha.(MT)

2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016RICEAlbay 204,345 201,811 (1.24) 51,883 52,095 212 3.94 3.87Camarines Norte

89,615 89,909 0.33 23,016 23,867 851 3.84 3.77

Camarines Sur

658,548 666,413 1.19 171,244 180,583 9,339 3.85 3.69

Catanduanes 35,741 34,065 (4.69) 10,663 11,635 972 3.35 2.93Masbate 147,754 149,871 1.43 52,039 52,264 225 2.84 2.87Sorsogon 128,445 133,423 3.88 33,462 33,645 183 8.84 3.97Region 5 1,264,448 1,275,492 0.87 342,307 354,089 11,782 3.69 3.60

Figure 3. Productive Performance of Palay Production. Bicol Region



The High Yielding Technology Adoption (HYTA) as an intervention to optimize productivity was vigorously pursued and concentrated at the province of Camarines Sur. Through the HYTA, farmers who are used to planting good seeds were encouraged to use certified seeds (CS) while those already adopting CS were urged to plant hybrid seeds. HYTA is being implemented in lowland irrigated areas with the LGUs and IAs as partners. The total value of CS, Hybrid Seeds and fertilizers provided to the IAs serve as seed money for the association/group through a grant-roll over-recovery (plant now-pay later scheme).

A total of 10,000 bags of hybrid seeds, 5,000 bags of certified seeds, 25,000 bags of fertilizers and 75,000 kilograms of Zinc sulfate were distributed to 15,000 qualified members of irrigators’ associations and farmers’ associations. In order to minimize losses brought about by extreme weather conditions, 5,000 bags of green super rice (GSR) seeds were distributed. These GSR are special rice lines which can tolerate adverse ecosystems such as flood, drought and salt intrusion.

The High Yielding Technology Adoption (HYTA)

For the rehabilitation of damaged rice farms due to El Nino phenomenon, 300 bags registered seeds and 35,000 bags certified seeds were distributed under seed bufferstocking. For the quick response brigade, 6 units combine harvester and 6 units 4WD Tractors were deployed.

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Around 580 hectares of new rice areas were generated from the construction of 3 units Diversion Dam, repair of 2 units small water impounding project and 6 units Diversion Dam. These ensure irrigation water supplementation in times of need. To further enhance productivity by reducing production cost, about 1,000 soil samples were analyzed at the Regional Soils Laboratory, thus provided farmers with the correct fertilizer recommendation.

Under Rice Crop Manager Project, 12,000 farmers were enrolled with the RCM POT in collaboration with the different provincial and municipal local government. These are broken down into: Camarines Sur – 4,137, Albay – 2,281, Camarines Norte – 663, Sorsogon – 2,356, Masbate – 133 and Catanduanes – 323. Also, in partnership with PLGUs 20 precision rice farming sites were established as RCM cluster model farms to showcase the RCM POT benefitting 725 farmers. For its research component/techno demos, 84 sites were established to receptive LGUs/farmers.

Numerous trials were also conducted in support to the Next Generation Project. A total of 4 trials were conducted in CBES and Minalabac, Cam. Sur for Dry season and Wet Season of 2016. Under its component Participatory Variety Selection (PVS) for Irrigated, Rainfed, Saline-prone and flood prone, 24 trials were conducted in the provinces of Camarines Sur, Sorsogon and Albay. For its 3rd component which is techno demo cum seed production, a total of 20 bags of certified seeds were distributed.

Yield enhancing technologies are tested and developed through the conduct of 20 regional research and development projects and 2 strategic rice R and D under the Food Staples Self Sufficiency Program (FSSP). The transfer of these technologies was hastened through the conduct of 100 batches of farmer’s field schools (FFS)/climate smart farmers’ field schools (CFS) with 2,000 participants.

Apos SWIP at Mayaopayao, Milaor, Camarines Sur

Diversion Dam at Guisican,Labo, Camarines Norte

Diversion dam at Baduya, Milaor, Camarines Sur

Diversion dam at San Juan, San Miguel, Catanduanes

Diversion at Hacienda Esperitu, Ocampo, Camarines Sur



A total of 206 local farmer technicians (LFTs) were maintained to support the existing LGU agricultural technicians in facilitating the transfer of technologies to the farmers.

Training programs and benchmarking trips were conducted

Extension Support, Education and Training Services

To speed up the transfer of modern rice technology to farmers, over 2,500 farmers, local government units’ agricultural extension workers (AEWs), and other stakeholders took part in the three-day National Rice Technology Forum highlighted by field visits to the 20 hectare hybrid rice compact demo farm at Balangibang, Polangui, Albay, and technical sessions on hybrid rice technology.

LFT Convention 2016 held at Cagayan De Oro

The City Government of Naga won P1M as outstanding LGU together with 27 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and five (5) Local Farmer Technicians during the 2015 Rice Achievers Awards. The awarding was held in Manila in April 2016.

to improve the knowledge and skills of these extension workers. Some 25,000 copies of info advocacy materials were likewise distributed for massive information dissemination of appropriate technologies.

3rd National Rice Technology Forum in Polangui, Albay

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CORN &


programCASSAVA

For 2016, national Corn production performance dropped by 4% (299,939MT) in terms of volume of production due to the effect of various calamities (Typhoons, El Niño, and others) that hit the country particularly in the two major corn producing regions - CAGAYAN Valley and SOCKSARGEN. Amidst this scenario, only six (6) regions posted positive growth rates which include the Bicol Region with 6.4% growth rate (15,467MT). Thus, Bicol region move up a notch from 8th place among the top corn producing regions in 2015 to 7th place in 2016.

2015-2016 CORN PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE (MT)

The technologies adopted by the graduates of the Climate Farmer Field School (CFFS) and the increasing number of corn areas showed positive impact on this year’s production despite the negative impacts of dry spell (El Nino phenomenon) and typhoons.



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Majority of the provinces in Bicol posted a positive production growth rate with Camarines Sur contributing 62% of the total production in Bicol while Albay and Sorsogon provinces registered almost 10% increase in production. As to area harvested, Camarines Sur has the highest increment of 5,296 hectares, followed by Albay with 1,552 hectares. Likewise corn farmers in Camarines Sur attained the highest average yield per hectare.

The DA RFO5 Corn Program in Bicol Region provided various support services and interventions on infrastructure/post-harvest development, farm mechanization, capacity building, research and extension support to priority corn and cassava producing provinces, specifically in clustered areas. The said activities and accomplishments have been undertaken by the program in partnership with local government units, state colleges and universities, private institutions and cluster organizations to increase farm income, reduce post-harvest losses and improve livelihood resiliency.

A total of 1,500 bags OPV White Corn were distributed to 1,529 farmer-beneficiaries in major corn producing provinces while a total of 131,775 cassava seed-pieces (cuttings) were distributed to 15 farmer-beneficiaries and 17 group throughout the region (except Catanduanes).

BICOL CORN PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE (2015-2016)



For improved soil fertility and reduction in pest outbreak/infestation, a total of 1,500 bags of agricultural lime were distributed in Albay, Masbate and Camarines Sur to rehabilitate acidic corn production areas and more than 5,000 hectares were monitored for pest and disease incidence. The Regional Crop Protection Center (RCPC) conducted 5 batches of farmer briefing on “Bantay Peste” in Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur and Masbate for 194 participants.

Briefing on “Bantay Peste” and Application of Agricultural lime for acidic farm areas in Bicol (right)

The DA-RFO 5 matched cassava assemblers with investors particularly the San Miguel Foods Incorporated (SMFI) and Maymatan Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative (MFMPC) of Goa, Camarines Sur, a registered SMC Cassava Assembler of Bicol Region. The DA-RFO 5 thru the Corn Program conducted a Provincial Stakeholders’ Consultation last 21 December 2016, the idea is to open an understanding on cassava industry perspective and to enhance participation of the Cassava Growers Associations, the Local Government Units, Financial Institutions and other Industry Stakeholders. The forum created a local consultative body to lay down plans and programs to strengthen cassava industry in the province and region as well. Issues and concerns on productivity, profitability, economic sustainability and global opportunity of cassava industry were

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Under the research, development and extension services, 10 corn techno demo sites were established in the provinces of Albay (2), Camarines Norte (2), Camarines Sur (4) and Masbate (2) and three (3) sites of techno-demo were established in the provinces of Camarines Sur (2) and Masbate (1). Different farm machineries and corn/cassava processing equipment were also provided both for improved agricultural research/productivity in these areas.

Other capability building activities were conducted to further enhance corn and cassava farmers and women’s skills and knowledge on technology advancement and value-adding through product development. Three (3) trainings on Postharvest technology and Promotion to reduce post-harvest losses, efficient and quality production for 126 farmer participants and one (1) Training on Corn Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Quality Standards in Camarines Sur were conducted with 32 farmer participants. Two (2) trainings on Corn Production Technology for Clusters and Non-Cluster Areas in Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur with 147 farmer participants. A seminar on Protocols on the Establishment of Climate Smart Farmers Field School on Integrated Pest Management Cum Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Corn Quality Standards with 46 farmers’ participants. Two (2) batches of training conducted for Cassava Stakeholders and Producers in Masbate and Camarines Sur with 62 farmer participants. Training on Good Agricultural Practices and Code of Hygienic Practices in Cassava with 70 farmer participants. Seven batches of training on Cassava Production and Processing were conducted in Masbate and Albay with 221 farmer participants.

To upscale and mainstream DRR in order to improve resiliency of farm households, the program provided early warning advisories for corn production. A total of 500 bags OPV corn seeds were distributed to farmers affected by natural hazards under the QRF (buffer-stocking program) while around 440 farmers were trained on Climate-Smart Farmers’ Field School (CFFS) in 15 sites across the Bicol Region.

The region produced twenty (20) National Corn Quality Achievers. The City of Naga under the City LGU Category and the municipality of Calabanga under the LGU municipality Category and one Corn Coordinator received national accolades. Thirteen (13) Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from Cam. Sur and Masbate provinces also received the award. A total of 20 corn and cassava organizations were assisted to join the corn and cassava cluster areas. Some 39,811.50 hectares corn cluster were developed in 2016 and intensive promotion of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) is targeted for 2017. Meanwhile, two (2) farms were GAP Certified and fourteen (14) is targeted for 2017.



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HIGH


program

CROPS DEVELOPMENT

VALUE

The High Value Crops Development Program is one of the banner programs of the Department of Agriculture created to help achieve food security, poverty alleviation and sustainable growth. Strategically, HVCDP helps to increase income, create livelihood opportunities and contribute to national agricultural development of the Philippines by providing interventions to farmers from production, processing, marketing and distribution of high value crops.

Production Support Services

The Production Support Services component includes the provision of high quality vegetable seeds and spices. For 2016, a total of 7,875 kilos of mungbean, 34,450 kilos peanut, six (6) kilos hot pepper, 5,352 kilos garlic, and 625 kilos assorted vegetable seeds were distributed to 249 farmer group/association/cooperative region wide.

Distribution of peanut and garlic to LGUs of Tigaon and Nabua, Camarines Sur.

To fully support the High Value Farmers, high quality planting materials were also provided. One million (1,000,000) pieces pineapple suckers, 75,000 pieces asexually propagated pili seedlings, 72,766 pieces coffee seedlings, 425,000 pieces cacao seedlings, and 500,000 pieces gabi runners were distributed to 269 farmer groups/associations/cooperatives in the region.



Distribution of planting materials.

To support the mango industry in Masbate, 30,000 kilos of flower inducers were provided to 21 farmers’ organizations. Pests and diseases management on vegetables and high value crops were also conducted to monitor incidence of major pest and application of appropriate management practices were done. Control measures were formulated to prevent possible pests and diseases outbreaks in the region.

Market Development Services

Under Market Development Services three (3) benchmarking activities were conducted, (2) international and eight (8) market related events were assisted, two (2) local events conducted and four (4) local events funded with fifty seven (57) individuals and eight (8) groups resulted to a market consummated agreement worth P8,005,000.00.

Extension Support, Education and Training Services To enhance farmers’ skills and knowledge on technology advancement of priority commodities in the region, 46 Package of Technology were transferred to about 1,233 farmer participant’s region wide. Likewise, aggressive information dissemination and advocacy campaign were undertaken where 12,000 copies of IEC materials were produced and distributed. Priority commodities were promoted through airing of five (5) radio plugs, production and airing of two (2) TV plugs. Press releases were published in local newspapers, in the agency’s website and social media. Twelve (12) press conference and media interfacing, as well as info caravan were also conducted. Some 45 techno demo farms for the rehabilitation and fertilization of 10,583 old cacao trees were established throughout the region.

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Irrigation Network Services

Irrigation is an essential factor in crop production especially in the germination of seeds, for the growth of the roots of crop and

Distribution of shallow tube wells and power tiller.

necessary for the absorption of nutrients and minerals by the plants from the soil. The DA-RFO 5 through the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) supports the provision and installation of Small Scale Irrigation Projects (SSIPs). Forty (40) units Shallow Tube Well (STW) and 15 units Small Farm Reservoir (SFR) benefitted (55) group beneficiaries covering a total service area of 55 hectares.



Other Infrastructure and Postharvest Development Services To optimize the utilization of all the production support services, they were accompanied with the distribution of six (6) units hand tractor/multi-cultivator, 25 units hand tractor, 40 units power sprayer, 50 units of power sprayer and 70 units knapsack sprayer to 53 farmer groups beneficiaries throughout the region as support to production. The program focused also on the post-harvest and processing of priority commodities, thus, producing better income opportunity to farmer recipients. Ten (10) units Multi-Commodity Solar Tunnel Dryer, six (6) units peanut grinder, six (6) units peanut sheller, 48 fermentation boxes, four (4) units commodity based processing facility and 1,000 pieces plastic crates were distributed to 117 farmer groups beneficiaries.

Thirty seven (37) Barangay Food Terminals (BFTs) were reactivated through the provision of farm equipment/machineries and post-harvest facilities in the provinces of Albay (16), Masbate (16), and Sorsogon (5). Thus, it helped encourage more farmers to venture in high value crops production.

For 2016, the program produced a National Gawad Saka 2016 Outstanding High Value Crops Farmer, Mr. Jose Amador of Brgy. Guinlajon, Sorsogon City, a proof of the program’s continued support to the small farmers of the region who were involved in high value crops production.

Distribution of shallow tube wells and power tiller.

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LIVESTOCK


program

& POULTRY DEVELOPMENT

The persistent effort of the livestock program in supporting the livestock and poultry raisers in Bicol resulted to a positive production performance of almost all the farm animals except hog as compared to 2015’s performance. Goat has 4.41% increment in production, cattle with 3.12% growth, and Carabao with 0.40%. The hog industry however, registered a decline in production by 1.67%. This is mainly due to lesser hog disposal for slaughter because raisers reserved their stocks as breeder animals for the year 2017. Increment in production was also achieved in some poultry commodities such as chicken with a growth rate of 5.49% and duck eggs with 9.14% increase in production.

Production Support Services

To hasten the proliferation of the genetically improved animals and increase the production of livestock and poultry animals, the DA Livestock Program maintained eight (8) livestock and poultry production centers within the research centers and outreach stations of the DA across the six (6) provinces of the region. The production centers include: Albay Breeding Station, Albay Experiment Station, Camarines Norte Lowland Rainfed Research Station, Central Bicol Experiment Station in Camarines Sur, Catanduanes Hilly Upland Development Station, Masbate Breeding Station and Regional Carabao Breeding Center in Masbate, and Sorsogon Dairy Production and Technology Center. Breeders were also maintained in the production centers which include sheep, cattle, goat, swine, carabao, chicken and ducks which serve as research sites and source of stocks. The program also maintained a total of 149 hectares of pasture area to ensure a year-round supply of forage to breeders and offspring in the stations.



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Unified Artificial Insemination Program (UNAIP)

The Unified Artificial Insemination Program (UNAIP) continues to pursue its aim to infuse genetically-superior animals through distribution of semen straws and AI supplies. In 2016, the program distributed a total of 6,508 semen straws from genetically superior cattle and carabao which benefitted a total of 1,821 beneficiaries across the region. With these interventions, 1,187 heads cattle and 2,065 heads carabao were inseminated. The previous year’s Artificial Insemination produced a total of 452 heads cattle and 383 heads carabao offspring. When these calves reached a year old (yearling), it is projected to have an estimated value of P25.05 M. With the establishment of Liquid Nitrogen (LN2) plant, LN2 supply is now readily available and with the number of AI technicians trained, an increase in production performance of at least 2% is expected to be achieved under favorable condition.

The Regional Animal Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL) has achieved its objectives such as monitoring the incidence and prevalence of infectious diseases wether old or newly introduced diseases and parasites in different provinces regionwide. This was attained through the continued surveillance and sample collection on different municipalities. RADDL also continues to cater to the needs of the livestock & poultry stakeholders in the prevention & control of major animal diseases through the provision of laboratory diagnostic examination services which is a vital tool for early detection of animal diseases thus resulting to early treatment. A total of 7,046 laboratory services (pathology, bacteriology, serology, virology, and necropsy) were provided by the laboratory. Sera samples for Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE) Test using ELISA drastically increased due to increase in number of samples from different livestock farms and animal supplier for shipment. This increase is due to the mandatory Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE) testing required before shipment.

Animal Health

The Animal Health Services were strengthened through the provision of veterinary drugs and biologics for the treatment, prevention and control of economically important diseases, and conduct of regular animal disease surveillances. A total of 3,713 doses vitamins, 3,541 doses antibiotic & 4,430 doses dewormer were distributed benefitting 3,624 individual clients and 27 groups. With these interventions, a total of 1,544 heads animals were treated, dewormed and vaccinated. These interventions which cost our office P200,000.00 resulted P1M savings among livestock raisers because their animals did not get sick up to market age.



The Regional Animal Feed Analysis Laboratory (RAFAL) is an important facility of the program that ensures the quality of livestock and poultry feeds and feedstuffs. It has analized 1,596 feed samples with 3,371 determinations (crude fat, crude fiber, moisture, ash, microscopy, mineral, and crude protein analysis) made.

Bicol region has maintained its foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) free status for almost a decade now, as well as its avian or bird flu-free status. This was made possible through the strict implementation of regulatory quarantine rules at entry points, close monitoring and sero-surveillance (collecting blood samples) for negative FMD and avian influenza, conduct of massive advocacy and information drive among animal raisers and farmers and provision of drugs and biologics for animal disease prevention.

Extension Support, Education and Training Services

The trainings conducted by the Livestock & Poultry Program for the year 2016 capacitated the recipients/beneficiaries of the Establishment of Sustainable Multiplier Farms Project, livestock farmers and enthusiasts, and Agricultural Extension Workers from Local Government Units (LGUs). Series of trainings include Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP), basic management practices in livestock and poultry like small ruminant production (goat & sheep) and pasture development, poultry production, and beekeeping. Through lectures, demonstrations and hands-on/ on-field activities, these trainings capacitated the recipients/beneficiaries in the maintenance of the project granted to their agencies/institutions.

The Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL) is already using the Direct Fluorescent Antibody Technique (DFAT) which according to the United States Center for Disease Control Agency is the “gold standard” diagnostic method for rabies. The RADDL requires at least 2% of the vaccinated dog for every municipality to be submitted to RADDL for rabies diagnosis. This resulted to an increase in the number of samples for rabies diagnosis which were tested through the use of Fluorescent Antibody Test (FAT). The incidence of rabies positive cases in 2016 decreased by 37% with a total of 19 positive cases diagnosed compared to 26 reported positive cases last 2015.

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A series of Meat Processing trainings for rural women, housewives, armies and youths were conducted to help them improve their living standard and provide source of additional income for their families.

The Cattle Raising Seminar was also done in cooperation with the Provincial Local Government Unit of Camarines Sur (PLGU-Cam. Sur) as the department’s intervention for the “Livelihood Assistance thru Modified Cattle Loan Distribution Scheme in Calamity Affected Areas” Project of the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) and PLGU-Cam. Sur. This project was made to assist the recipients in the communities to recover from their losses caused by typhoons. Selected recipients were trained to ensure that the goals of the project will be achieved. It also helped them become knowledgeable in raising and managing the animals they received.

For special projects like the Livestock & Poultry Information-Early Warning System (LPI-EWS), after the re-organization of the project team, Orientation on Livestock & Poultry Data System and Workshop on the Implementation of AO 27 for the LGU Meat Inspectors throughout the region were realized in cooperation with the regional offices of Philippine Statistics Authority and National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS-V). This was followed by Training Course on Data Management using MS Excel to enable the new members of the LPI-EWS project team manage, format, chart and analyze data more effectively using MS Excel, and perform statistical analysis using PHStat. LPI-EWS aims to organize databases and food security early warning indicators (deficit and surplus areas) for the Indicative Supply-Demand Analysis at the regional and provincial levels; collect and organize administrative-based data such as slaughter data (AO 27) as input to supply-demand analysis; initiate strategies on crafting institutional plans for the region especially on broiler and swine.

Production Facilities EstablishedMultiplier Farm In 2016, DA-Bicol committed to empower and capacitate the local animal raisers in the region to produce their own animals. Thus, a total of 14 multiplier farms were established located across the 6 provinces of the region, namely: Albay Breeding Station, Albay Experiment Station, Camarines Norte Lowland Rainfed Research Station, Central Bicol Experiment Station in Camarines Sur, Catanduanes Hilly Upland Development Station, Masbate Breeding Station and Regional Carabao Breeding Center in Masbate, Sorsogon Dairy Production and Technology, DEBESMSCAT in Masbate, CNSC in Camarines Norte, PSU in Camarines Sur and BUCAF in Albay.



A total of 200 head ewes, 20 head rams, 80 head does, 8 head bucks, 840 head native chickens, 140 colonies bee (Apis mellifera) were distributed along with 11 units chicken house, 4 units goat house, 8 units sheep house and 5 small ruminant production area were fenced. 14 sets bee production equipment were also provided to 14 multiplier farm beneficiaries (8 Livestock production centers, SUCs and organization). This project aims to empower and capacitate beneficiaries to produce their own animals.

The 200 head ewes distributed will have an estimated offspring of 3 heads/ewe each in two years’ time or an estimated 600 heads. The total native chicken distributed can produce about 144,000 eggs in a year or about 115,200 chicks will be hatched (80% hatchability).

The bee colonies distributed are expected to increase by 3 colonies (minimum) or 10 colonies (maximum) per season. Aside from honey to be derived, bees can provide 30% increase in yield on crops because of pollination.

Each multiplier farm will then be the source of quality stocks which can be used to expand the project for the benefit of the students, faculty and the locality. The expected impact of the project is food security, livelihood opportunities, jobs generation and rural development. It can invigorate the livestock industry by promoting enterprise development thereby providing added income for the raisers.

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ORGANIC

Banner ProgramsAgribusiness & Marketing Assistance Division

programAGRICULTURE

It has been seven years since Republic Act 10068, otherwise known as “Organic Agriculture Act of 2011” was signed, and from thereon Organic Agriculture gained ground in the Bicol Region. Organic Agriculture Program (OAP) is anchored on its four principles which are health, ecology, fairness and care. Guided by its holistic approach and with the active collaboration, partnership and cooperation of the stakeholders, the region was able to achieve big strides which bring it closer to the program’s objectives. To date around 23,209 hectares are devoted to organic farming in the region of which almost 5,000 hectares are 3rd party certified, with a total volume of around 67,960mt. Majority of the certified farms are planted to coconut which are processed into cocowater, vinegar and cocosugar followed by pigmented rice being supplied to almost 800 distributors/supermarkets nationwide.

The distribution of 800 kilograms organic rice seeds, 3 kilograms assorted vegetable seeds, 400 kilograms OPV corn seeds with 18 kilograms BIO-N, 150 kilograms African Night Crawler and 100,000 kilograms of organic fertilizers, benefitted 140 farmers. These interventions were aimed to support, strengthen and stimulate the conversion of traditional farms into organic farms.

Distribution of rice seeds, vegetable seeds, corn seeds, Bio-N, African Night Crawler andorganic fertilizers. Photos below show the distri-bution of composting facilities.



Consumer awareness activities, promotions and capacity building for organic practitioners and stakeholders successfully linked the stakeholders, producers and consumers to growing local markets and increasing the acceptance and consumption of locally produced organic products. A total of 8 consumer awareness, 18trade fairs and exhibits, fora, congresses and stakeholders consultations were conducted this year in continuous partnership and collaboration with LGUs, NGOs, POs and SUCs benefiting a total of 805 farmers/technicians, students, entrepreneur and OA enthusiast. These resulted to increasing demand for organic products thereby opening new markets for organic. “Organic food is not a luxury, it is how food is supposed to be”, said former OA director Elsa Parot.

9th Bicol Organic Agriculture Congress

The 9th Bicol Organic Agriculture Congress, an annual gathering of organic agriculture farmers, practitioners, advocates and supporters was participated in by almost 600 participants at Naga City on November 7-8, 2016. The congress was graced by three members of the National Organic Agriculture Board: Fr. Ian Trillanes, Parish Priest of Lupi, Camarines Sur; Dr. Georgina J. Bordado, President of the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture; and Ms. Josephine Costales, owner of the Costales Nature Farm in Majayjay, Laguna and Ms. Grace Moore was the guest speaker. The congress featured a forum, exhibit, presentation of resolution and recognition of regional winners. The two-day fair generated P300,000.00 sales.

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National/Regional Organic Agriculture Achievers Awards

Regional Organic Achievers with exemplary contribution and unwavering support towards the implementation of RA 10068 were awarded. Province of Albay was awarded as regional outstanding province. Albay received a project grant worth P500,000. Ligao City – Outstanding City in OA received a project grant worth P300,000; Eleanor O. Daep – Outstanding OA Provincial Focal Person received P25,000 cash award; Dexter A. Mendoza - Outstanding OA city focal person received P20,000 cash award; Benedicto Heraldo - Outstanding OA Extension Worker received P20,000 cash award; Edilberto A. Abad - Outstanding OA individual farmer received P50,000 cash award; Amata family - Outstanding OA farming family received P100,000 project grant; and the Agri-Planters and Food Processors Association of Tigaon (TAPFPAT) - Outstanding OA group category, received P100,000 funding assistance for their OA projects. All the winners also received a plaque of commendation. Majority or 75% of the regional entries were national finalists;1. Province of Albay –Province Category2. Eleanor Daep –Provincial OA Focal Person Category3. Dexter Mendoza –City OA Focal Person Category4. Edilberto Abad –Individual Farmer Category5. Amata Family – Family Category6. The Agri-Planters and Food Processors Association of Tigaon (TAPFPAT) –Group Category

The Agri-Planters and Food Processors Association of Tigaon (TAPFPAT)

The Province of Albay was finalist in the province category. The citation was received by provincial agriculturist Cheryl Rebeta (left photo). Eleanor Daep (right photo received the citation for provincial OA focal person category.

The Agri-Planters and Food Processors Association of Tigaon (TAPFPAT) made it as the National winner under the farmers group Category and received a plaque of recognition and a check amounting to P500,000.00 as project grant.



Certification Subsidy

A total of 20 farms were granted the 3rd party certification by the Organic Certification Center of the Philippines (OCCP) and the Certificate of Registration from Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards through the certification subsidy of the OA Program.The Agri-Planters and Food Processors Association of Tigaon (TAPFPAT) of Huyon-Huyon, Tigaon, Camarines Sur has 14 farmers while the Goa Agri Producers and Processors Association (GAPPA) of Hiwacloy, Goa, Camarines Sur has 5 farmers and the Lolo Veriong’s Natural Farm of Comadogcadog, Del Gallego, Camarines Sur. Certification Subsidy is an incentive for organic agriculture entities/farmers and organic input producers’ in compliance with the Philippine National Standards on Organic Agriculture.

“Producing food while sustaining the ecological balance is the best legacy TAPFPAT can give to the present and future generation”

- Elmer Salazar President of TAPFPAT 2016 NOAA National Winner Outstanding Organic Agriculture Group

Testimony

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DivisionsAgribusiness and MarketingAssistance DivisionMarket Matching

A total of 4000 metric tons of rice were supplied to Sunnywood benefitting three (3) Rice Processing Centers (RPC) in the region in order to widen their market. Corn farmers from different municipalities in Camarines Sur and Albay were linked to local feed millers for a total volume of 354.5 MT with price ranging from Php12.00 to 13.80, with a price difference of P1.00 – P1.50/kilo when sold to compradas.

A total of 402 metric tons of pineapple, eggplant and ampalaya were linked to Metro Manila buyers amounting to Php8,005,000.00. Another 26.07 metric tons of squash and gabi amounting to Php 500,140.00 were linked to UBM and Pixcel Transglobal Foods Inc.

Fairs and Exhibits Participated

AMAD participation in five local and four international fairs wherein Bicol farmers promoted, exhibited and traded their products to potential clients/market. Health food products were also promoted during the SIAL Middle East and opened new market opportunities. • 12th Philippine National Corn Congress at Koronadal City, South Cotabato on November 16-18, 2016 • 13th Philippine Food Expo at SMX Convention Center, Pasay City on May 6-8, 2016 • Manila Food and Beverage Expo (MAFBEX) 2016 at World Trade Center, Pasay City on June 8-12, 2016 • Bishop Francisco Gainza Trade Fair at Naga City on September 8-19, 2016 • 5th Bicol Tourism and Food Expo in Naga City on September 15-18, 2016

Bicol products displayed during the 12th Philippine National Corn Congress

DA’s booth during the 5th Bicol Tourism and Food Expo



International Trade Fairs • Madrid Fusion Manila at SMX Convention Center, Pasay City on April 7-9 • Natural & Organic Products Europe, London, United Kingdom on April 17-18 • Agrilink/Foodlink/Aqualink at World Trade Center, Pasay City on October 4-9 • SIAL Middle East in Abu Dhabi, UAE on December 5-7.

A total of 804 farmers and fisherfolks, LGU technicians and representatives from the academe attended the 2016 Farmers’ Festival which was highlighted by selling of various agricultural products from the participating provincial and municipal Barangay Food terminals from the 6 provinces of the region, technology fora and market updating seminars.

Senator Cynthia Villar together with USEC Evelyn Laviña visited the DA Bicol’s booth during the Agrilink/Foodlink/Aqualink at World Trade Center.

Bicol products display.

Mrs. Yolanda Oliva, owner of YML Health Food Products answers que-ries of the participants during the SIAL Middle East in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Dr. Elena B. De Los Santos, Regional Executive Director led the cutting of ribbon together with DA’s Division Chiefs during the opening ceremony of the Farmers’ Festival 2016; (Middle Photo) Dr. De Los Santos delivers the opening message; (Right Photo) Dried Fish from Masbate displayed in the Exhibit Area

DA Bicol booth during the Natural and Organic Products Europe in Excel, London, United Kingdom.

Farmers Festival

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Market-Related Events Conducteda) Investment Fora

Eight (8) investment fora were conducted and participated in by 291 farmers, suppliers, micro entrepreneurs, buyers, academe, financial institutions, food processors, producers and agricultural technicians who manifested interest to increase awareness on the latest market demands and explore new opportunities and strengthen a multi-sectoral network system for investments.

b) Philippine National Standards (PNS) Two batches of Training on the Philippine National Standards (PNS) related to Tree Nuts were conducted at La Huerta Farm, Baao, Camarines Sur and Guinobatan, Albay on September 20-21, 2016 and October 26-27, 2016, respectively. The Philippine National Standards of tree nuts and the latest production, post-harvest and processing technologies were discussed to the participants.

c) Commodity Board Meetings

AMAD also facilitated the conduct of meetings of the Bicol commodity boards namely Vegetable, Pineapple, Pili, and Cacao Commodity Boards to update the different stakeholders on DA’s programs.

d) Stakeholders’ Consultation and Strategic Planning

Three (3) Stakeholders’ Consultation and Strategic Planning were conducted to solicit and gather commitments and support from different

Investment Forum on Cassava held at Goa, Camarines Sur

Investment Forum on Cacao at the SM Event Center, Naga City

Grace Mandigma of BAFS discusses the Philippine National Standards related to Tree Nuts

Dr. Marissa Estrella of BCARRD discusses the Pili production technologies

stakeholders; to sustain business relationships among stakeholders and to strengthen a m u l t i - s e c t o r a l network system for investments and entrepreneurship.

Ronald Coprada of HVCDP updates the board on high value crops program.



Trading Centers

One tangible contribution of the APTC in agricultural development was the expansion of area planted to vegetables in Camarines Norte. As of December 2016, there were already 200 hectares planted to lowland and upland vegetables in the service area of the APTC. In the municipality of Vinzons alone where the APTC is located, 63 hectares are planted to vegetables, 105 hectares

Agri Pinoy Trading Center (APTC) at Vinzons, Camarines Norte

Many farmers were encouraged to propagate vegetables in commercial scale because they see a sure market in the APTC. These farmers adapted multi-cropping to ensure continuous supply of different types of vegetables at all times.

are planted with rootcrops, 80 hectares for watermelon, 18 hectares for pineapple, 42 hectares for fruit trees, 12 hectares for banana and 5,788 hectares are planted with coconut.

Part of this development is attributed to the augmentation of technical staff of the APTC who regularly teach farmers the new and effective technologies through conduct of seminars and trainings and by assisting them in marketing their produce at the APTC and even in neighboring municipalities, Camarines Sur towns and cities and Legazpi City in Albay, Paranaque and at Sentrong Pamilihan in Sariaya Quezon if ever there are surplus of produce like sweet potato and squash.

The APTC also maintains four (4) reefer vans and one (1) hauling truck which make rounds in the municipalities of Vinzons, Labo, Talisay, Basud and Daet. In 2016, a total of 514 individual farmers supplied various agricultural products to the APTC. The APTC has disbursed P10,321,700 for the purchase of 695.1814 metric tons of fruits and vegetables and collected a total sales of P10,748,334.99 for the total 666.7013 metric tons agricultural crops sold.

In 2014, there were only 53 traders or wholesale buyers, but in 2015, the buyers increased to 960 or an increment of 1,811%. As of December 2016, a total of 839 bulk buyers transacted with the APTC generating a total of P101,357.10 in trading fees. The prices of major crops in the coverage areas of Cam. Norte are steadily increasing and benefitting the farmers, because traders can no longer dictate the price. For example, the squash which in the past dipped at a very low price of P1.00 per piece now commands a wholesale price of as high as P18.00 per kilo. The farmers also learned proper crop rotation and are now observing the cropping calendar, thus they are able to program their harvest and avoid over supply.

Some farmers still sell their produce to traders but only if the price is higher than the running price at the APTC. Otherwise, they will just contact the APTC to pick their produce and get the cash immediately.

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VINZONS, CAMARINES NORTE - If there are top grossing movie celebrities, there are also top grossing farmers in this 3rd class municipality. Spouses Alicia and Rolando Jimenez of Barangay Calangkawan Sur recently earned the reputation as 2016 top grossing farmers who earned a total of P336,765.00 by just regularly selling their fruits and vegetable produce to the DA funded Agripinoy Trading Center (APTC) at Vinzons, Camarines Norte during the whole year. The couple came from families of farmers. Aling Alicia related that after their wedding, they immediately rent a small farm out of the cash gifts they have

APTC bares top grossing farmers for 2016

received from their ninongs and ninangs. They planted rice, fruits and vegetables and also raised hogs and cattle which Mang Rolando said have been a big help in financing the schooling of their five daughters.

Aling Alicia and Mang Rolando did not finish high school. That’s why they made sure all their children will finish a course in college. The eldest is a teacher, the second child is a police officer and the three others are all professionals and have found jobs in Manila. They also built a huge bungalow where all the children and grandchildren have their own rooms whenever they are in the province.

Mang Rolando used to drive a tricycle in Daet to augment their income, while Aling Alicia used to sell their produce in the sidewalks of the Daet market. “Nakikipaghabulan ako sa pulis noon dahil bawal daw magtinda sa bangketa. Ngayon na may APTC na, wala nang kahirap-hirap ang pagmamarket (ng ani). Isang tawag lang sa APTC, nandyan na ang van para mag pick up.”

The couple grows various vegetables like eggplant, squash, upo and string beans planted at different locations in the barangay. Aling Alicia also grows watermelon in a three hectare area, while Mang Rolando tends to their one hectare rice farm, 14 cattle and 2 carabaos. The couple maintains more than five hectares planted to different crops but they rent the land for P3,000 per hectare per cropping. They employ an average of 10 laborers for various farm work.

One secret of their bountiful harvests is the chicken (layers) dung they use as basal fertilizer which are mixed in the soil during land preparation. Mang Rolando buys a truck load of chicken dung from Batangas at P100 per sack. “Sabi ng mga bumibisita sa bahay namin, ‘ang ganda nga ng bahay, ang baho naman.’ Sabi ko di bale na, malaking pera naman yan pag-ani.” “Ang kagalingan sa pagiging magsasaka ay basta’t masipag at matyaga ka lang ay madali ang pera. Sa bawat ani ko ng palay o gulay, ang ibang kinita ko ay palagi kong ibinibili ng baka o baboy kaya sabay na dumadami din ang mga alaga kong hayop,” Mang Rolando relates.



DivisionsRegulatory Division

Maintenance of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) without vaccination and Avian Influenza (AI) Free Region in the 6 provinces of Bicol

Through the collaborative efforts of the Regulatory Division, Regional Animal Disease and Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL) and the Veterinary Quarantine Station 5 (VQS-5), Bicol maintained to be “FMD and AI Free region”. Strict implementation of regulatory laws such as the R.A 8485 or Animal Welfare Act of 1998; R.A 10631, act amending certain sections of R.A 8485; and some relevant administrative orders issued such as the DA-AO No. 13 stating the guidelines for transport or shipment of animals (hog, cattle, carabao, sheep, goat and other cloven-footed animals, their meat and meat products, animal products and by-products in and between Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao) and DA AO No. 8 requiring registration and licensing of livestock, poultry and by-product handlers and livestock transport carriers. Closed monitoring of entry and exit points (1 checkpoint, 14 sea ports and 4 airports) were being implemented for bio-security wherein for CY 2016, quarantine personnel apprehended a total of 58,478 heads of livestock and poultry animals (chicken, pigeon, swine, cattle, carabao, horse); and animal products and by-products (11,856 kgs of meat products, 94,500 pcs of egg, and 955 kgs of dressed chicken). Surveillance activities were likewise conducted throughout the region to monitor the status of animal diseases. For AI and FMD Sero- surveillance, a total of 343 and 382 blood samples were collected and analyzed respectively.

Enforcement of R.A 1556 (Livestock and Poultry Feeds Act), R.A 3720 (Veterinary Drugs and Products Quality Control and Safety) and R.A 8485 (Animal Welfare Act)

The Regulatory Division continuously facilitated various activities under the implementation of these laws, policies and programs which were embedded to promote food safety, food security and global competitiveness.

For CY 2016, a total of 650 feed establishments were registered, out of these 126 were newly licensed. For veterinary drug and product outlets, 272 were registered; 70 outlets out of the total were new registrants. There were also 20 animal facilities been endorsed and registered.

Number of feeds and VDAP establishments as of December 2016 and the number of registered establishments out of the total population.

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Divisions

A total of 2,921 number of inspection and monitoring were conduct-ed (by frequency) to feed establishments while 1,464 to VDAP outlets, and 27 animal facilities were inspected and evaluated.

Mixed feeds and feed ingredient production inspected totaled to 165,597 MT and 90,028 MT, respectively. This surpassed the production inspected for the previous two consecutive years, with a total of 159,576MT of mixed feeds and feed ingredients for CY 2014, while 214,030MT in CY 2015. The deputized Provincial Animal Feeds and Veterinary Drugs and Biologics Control Officers (PAFVDABCOs) collected a total of 1,621 feed samples from feed establishments (manufacturers and retailers) and evaluated a total of 1,564 results of analysis conducted by the Regional Animal Feeds Analysis Laboratory (RAFAL).

Breakdown of Registered Feeds and VDAP Establishments for CY 2016

The Regulatory Division conducted and facilitated 12 seminars as one of the requirements for registration and licensing that were attended by 308 participants (184 male, 124 female) with a total cost of P181, 224.85.

Under registration and licensing, (11) Mixed Feed Manufacturers/ Distributors, (6) Ingredient Manufacturers/Suppliers, and (108) Feed Retailers and VDAP outlets were also geo-tagged by the inspection and monitoring team.



The table above shows the total revenue collected for this year and the previous two years, CY 2014 and 2015 and the breakdown of collection. For CY 2016, 44% of the total revenue comprised the inspection fees on production collected from mixed feed and feed ingredient manufacturers. The increase in feed production contributed 47% of the total average increase of 39.5% from the year 2014. The remaining 53% was attributed to the increase of registrants on VDAP establishments and animal facilities. These only mean a high and positive response towards the massive campaign being conducted to promote regulatory compliance among stakeholders.

To validate our organic certified farms under the organic certification program for monitoring purpose and to make them accessible on-line for public, the team conducted geo-tagging of the 3 organic certified farms located in Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte, to wit: (1) Moraleda Farm in Daet (organic fertilizer, swine, goat and sheep); (2) Peńafrancia Sugar Mill (Pensumil) at Ocampo, Camarines Sur (organic fertilizer from vermicomposting); and (3) Pecuaria Development Cooperative at Bula, Camarines Sur (organic fertilizer from vermicomposting).

Animal Health

In collaboration with the Animal Health Program, Regulatory Division funded 3 trainings/seminars, one is the Assessment and System Review on Philippine Animal Health Information System (PhilAHIS) Implementation in Region V on December 1-2, 2016 at Casa Basilisa, Guinobatan, Albay attended by 54 participants (35 male, 19 female) from the DA- LGU of selected municipalities and DA regional office.

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DivisionsResearch Division

Research plays an important role in fostering innovation and productivity in agriculture. The Bicol Integrated Agricultural Research Center (BIARC) or RIARC worked on coming up with a world class research infrastructure to be at par with other research institutions and at the same time achieve quality, location specific, relevant researches for the region. For 2016, a total of fifty 52 research studies were conducted, of these, 13 projects were on varietal selection, nine on farming system; six both on crop improvement and promotion of new products; four on organic agriculture, four on pest and disease management and nutrient management; two on climate change and livestock production; and one each for biotechnology and agricultural mechanization (Fig. 1).

Fig 1. Researches by Funding Source, CY 2016

Under the Institutional Development Grant of DA-BAR, a total of P9.5 million worth of project was funded and with Notice to Proceed in the region. These include the rehabilitataion of the perimeter fence, establishment of the plant genetic resources facility and the enhancement of the production support to the tissue culture laboratory. A P4 million worth of Organic Agriculture R & D Center for Bicol was also completed in the same year

10-year portfolio of all BAR-supported completed R&D projects which is designed for all researchers, stakeholders to have quick reference and ready-to-access information on technologies generated from R&D including project summaries, technology description and applications. To bring the compendium to a wider reach a web-based info system was also developed by BAR with the RFOs providing the information taken from the compendium. The compendium was launched during the 28th National Research Symposium last October 27, 2016.

and was inaugurated last October with BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar gracing the occasion. Also in the pipeline is the construction of the 5M Regional R & D facility and the P3.15 million Mushroom Laboratory.

Likewise, the center was able to come up with its Compendium of Agriculture and Fisheries R&D Projects from 2005 to 2014 entitled A Decade of Success funded by BAR. This is a



community development and showcased the programs’ significant accomplishments of the different regions in the country. For Bicol, farmer Ronaldo Cagnayo of Agos, Polangui, Albay together with AT Leslie Bongalos were among the CPAR team from Bicol.

Meanwhile, farmer-cooperators of the CPAR project were given the opportunity to learn new technologies during the 3rd National Community-based Participatory Action Research (CPAR) Farmer and Fisherfolk Congress in Tagaytay City last November 15-18, 2016. The event recognized the CPAR farmers and fisherfolks’ great contribution to

Year 2016 was indeed a lucky year for BIARC. A number of research works obtained awards and recognition both at the regional and national levels. Among the recognitions received were the Best Product (3rd place) for the nipa salad dressing of Luz Despabeladeras a project supported by BIARC, and Best Booth (3rd place) during the 12th Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Forum and Product Exhibition sponsored by BAR on August 11-14 2016 at SM Megatrade Hall 2, Mandaluyong City.

Through the years, BIARC researchers consistently took the lime light in various symposia. Six (6) completed researches were adjudged as AFMA R&D Paper during the 28th National Research Symposium; and two (2) R&D papers won major awards during the 2016 Joint Regional Symposium for Research, Development and Extension Highlights held at Camarines Sur Polytechnic College, Nabua, Camarines Sur last November 16, 2016. These are the Vegetable/ Legume Seed Production and Seed Enhancement: The Bicol’s Tabangnon Tribe Way of Ms. Luz Marcelino et.al. (3rd place for Development Category); and “Localizing Hybrid Rice Technology with Rice Crop Manager” of Ms Corazon Orbon et.al. (2nd place for Research Category.

The Tabangnon tribe members during the field visit.

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Impact of the Studies/Projects:

Dealing with IP farmers especially when introducing technologies was a great challenge. The project Vegetable/ Legume Seed Production and Seed Enhancement: The Bicol’s Tabangnon Tribe is an example on how researchers effectively introduced various technologies to uplift the lives of the IPs. Their skills in seed production, buffer stocking particularly in purification, rouging, seed selection, pest management, biological control and diversification were honed. Clustering and “plant now, pay later”, palit similya”and “barter scheme” were adopted to ensure availability of seeds and to sustain the attitudinal change that took place among the IPs. One factor that helped them sustain the project is the support system through their organization. They were organized and members earned as much as Php 55,000 - 60, 000 in OPV produced and fresh (culled) seeds. On the otherhand, the project “Localizing Hybrid Rice T e c h n o l o g y with Rice Crop Manager” showed high economic return in six hybrid rice yield trials as it offers less cost for plant nutrition compared to the original hybrid rice technology with a gain of Php 10,800.00 - 12,000.00, which mean RCM POT can be adopted as a component technology in hybrid rice cultivation. However, LGUs should use and provide GIS-based mapping of potential areas for the POT to come up with the actual data on hybrid rice production in the region and to maximize field production and benefits. These cluster areas will form as the hybrid niches for cultivation with government institutional support systems that will ultimately provide increased regional rice production.

The said publication is a result of a 2012-2014 study Anthropological and Socioeconomic Characterization of Bicol Agta Indigenous Peoples (IPs) conducted by PhilRice LB in collaboration with the DA RFO-5 and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in the Bicol region. The book comes in four volumes, documents farming practices, social conditions, and economic status in four IP communities in Camarines Sur and Albay.

Research Division Chief, Luz R. Marcelino together with the Researchers from PhilRice Los Baños launched the coffee table book entitled “Anthropological and socio-economic characterization of selected indigenous farming com-munities in the Bicol Region” held on Oct. 12, 2016.

BIARC continuously works on harmonizing the agricultural research system. It took the lead in the planning, implementation and coordination of the Regional Research and Development/Extension (RDE) System for agriculture in the region. Activities conducted include: revalidating, redirecting, revisiting and updating the RIRDEAP in coordination with the 21 member agencies of the RDE network. One of its major activity is the holding of the Regional Multi-Stakeholders’ Consultation Workshop on the



Review and Updating of the Regional Integrated Research Development and Extension Agenda and Programs for Agriculture. This was held at Avenue Plaza Hotel on February 9, 2016. Likewise, to ensure that gaps and issues at the regional level were addressed properly by concerned agencies both local and national level the Division provided the necessary inputs like proposals, collaboration and recommendations during regional consultation workshops. An example of which is on the Formulation of Agriculture and Mechanization Research, Development and Extension Agenda sponsored by BAR, Philmech, DA Central Office and Philrice.

TITLE AWARD AUTHOR(S)Vegetable/ Legume Seed Production and Seed Enhancement: The Bicol’s Tabangnon Tribe Way

Best R & D paper 3rd place, Development Category, AFMA R& D Paper Award

Luz R. MarcelinoJeanet SaldivarHenrilyn YamzonDr. Edgar R. Madrid and Dr. Elena de los Santos

Development and Commercialization of Likas Saka Innoculant for Farm Wastes Recycling

AFMA R & D Paper Award


CPAR Farm Care Model: Innovative Strategy to Promote Integrated Management in the uplands

AFMA R & D Paper


Localizing Hybrid Rice Technology with Rice Crop Manager

Best R & D paper 2nd Place (Research Category)AFMA R & D Paper Award

Corazon A OrbonLimberly F. BermilloMa. Lambini S. AldecoaMaridel Q. BibayDr. Edgar MadridDr. Elena de los Santos

Enhancing Rice Produtivity in Different Ecosystem in Bicol Region through Participatory Variety

AFMA R & B Paper Award

Corazon A OrbonLimberly F. BermilloMa. Lambini S. AldecoaMaridel Q. BibayDr. Edgar MadridDr. Elena de los Santos

Asha Peanut Production under Coco-based Farming System

AFMA R & D Paper Award

Dolores RicafrancaDr. Edgar R. MadridDr. Elena B. De Los Santos

AFMA R&D Paper AwardS during the 28th National Research Symposium

Corn and Cassava R & D The trial on Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) for Cassava Production is still on going with six trials established. The study will develop a cassava fertilizer recommendation and determine the optimum fertilizer recommendation to obtain optimum yield for cassava. Meanwhile the On-Farm Participatory Evaluation in Region 5: Nutrient Expert for Maize was conducted at Asid and Cataingan in Masbate and in Tigaon, Camarines Sur. A total of nine trials were established utilizing one hectare each for the trial.

The Study on the Comparison of cassava yield using different planting methods was established in three sites. The purpose of which is to compare the different agronomic characteristics and yield of cassava using

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different methods of planting and later come up with a recommendation for farmer’s adoption.

Corn Techno Demo Based Projects (Tipid-abono), ten farmer-cooperators were identified and provided with hybrid corn seeds and fertilizer based on the recommendation from the quick guide developed for corn production. For wet season cropping, the recommendation is to apply 4 bags complete, 0.5 bags 0-0-60 and 2 bags Urea. The farmer should have at least 1 hectare corn area for the demo. Another techno Demo was also established for Cassava.

Meanwhile, three technology demonstrations were established in three sites with at least 1000 m2 area. The demo showcased the package of technology on cassava production using the national fertilizer recommendation (56-56-56 kg/ha), and it will also know the effect of leaf removal and detopping on the yield of cassava.

B I A R C sustained its support to Gender and Development (GAD) activities through the conduct of food processing and value-adding trainings on different commodities for Rural Based Organizations, specifically the rural women. A total of 32 trainings on food processing were conducted by the Regional Technology Commercialization Center together with the Institutional Development Section (IDS). A total of 1,678 rural women, 4Hers and farmers attended the training. Another four trainings were also conducted on meat processing for rural women. Aside from this, eight products were developed namely: cassava sweetener, cassava tapioca, cassava grits as subsitute for rice, cacao powder instant drink, mushroom chicharon, mushroom tempura, mushroom soup with sili and mushroom candy. Today 15 rural women are engaged in various micro-enterprises which provided additional source of income for their families.

BIARC is also bent on implementing Good Agricultural Practices not only to the stations but also among farmers in the region. A team is working on promoting basic environmental and operational conditions necessary for the production of safe, fruits and vegetables. There were twelve (12) vegetable farms and orchards assisted by the team for GAP-certification for 2016 and were endorsed for inspection by the national team for them to qualify as GAP certified. These 12 farms completed the requirements for certification.

Likewise, BIARC continued its collaboration with PHILRICE and IRRI since two national projects like Rice Crop Manager (RCM) and PRISM were implemented in the region. With these projects, new technologies were developed to help mitigate losses and raise farm productivity.



The RCM project is an ICT-based extension service that aims to contribute to the implementation of appropriate ‘modern precision farming.’ It also incorporated the rice doctor component to the nutrient management tool thereby expanding its application on a wholistic perspective of rice cultivation. The project has a total of 9,893 enrollees (rice farmers) broken down by province: Camarines Sur (4137); Albay (2281), Camarines Norte (663), Sorsogon (2356), Masbate ( 133) and Catanduanes (323). Meanwhile, the Philippine Rice Information System (PRISM) is a 4-year R&D collaborative project between the DA, PhilRice, IRRI and sarmap. This project monitors rice areas, yields, damage from flooding, storms, and droughts as well as diseases, pests, and weeds that may cause reduction in yield or production. It uses remote sensing satellites, crop models, in-field crop surveys, and other fieldwork. At the ground level the project uses software that organizes information on rice yield, yield gaps and causes of these yield gaps. These are uploaded to the system using GPS then coordinated to CLOUD. Two researchers were involved in the project covering 20 sites.

The community-based mushroom production project under the Rice Program provided agri-entrepreneurial option to the local farmers. A total of 28 trainings with 1,024 participants were conducted region-wide to LGUs, NGOs, SUCs and rural-based organizations. To date there are 36 community-based adoptors and some of them have already forged partnership with DTI and DOST. A study to test the yield performance of mushroom with different substrate was conducted. Initial results showed that 70% corn cobs and 70% abaca waste can be a substitute subtrate for 70% rice straw. The yield obtained was 105 – 132 kg. mushroom. Also 70% corn cobs and abaca can be a substitute for 70% rice straw as substrates in the fruiting bags.

To increase the number of proposals for funding and to enhance the capabilities of researchers and project leaders the research division in cooperation with the University of the Philippines College of Development Communication in Los Banos Laguna conducted a training on Technical Writing and Research proposal Preparation last June 27-30, 2016. Speakers of the t r a i n i n g w e r e Professors K a b z e e l Sheba G. C a t a p a n g and Olga B. Castriciones - Lomboy.

Special Projects Rimas (Breadfruit) Biodiversity Research, Conservation, and Propagation in the Bicol Region

Table 1. Average grain yield of rice (tons/ha).

Rimas is abundantly found in the region. The fruit are harvested as energy food by the local populace particularly in Masbate. However, the use of rimas is limited to local cuisine like boiled and “ginataang gulay”. It is along this line that the project has included product development aside from benchmarking of this commodity. To date, a total of fifteen (15) new recipes were developed from rimas. The Regional Food Laboratory is currently working on product development research and they will be submitting samples of the products developed for analysis by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of DOST.

PROVINCES NO. OF NO. OF YEARS MEANS OF PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED RIMAS PLANTED PROPAGATION

Sorsogon 233 20 Asexual unfavorableweathercondition like strong wind and typhoonMasbate 67 2 to 120 Asexual Shorter shelf life of fruits and eaten by batsCam. Norte 21 15 to 65 Asexual Shorter shelf life of fruits, no established market and occurrence of typhoonCam. Sur 35 2 to 20 Asexual Shorter shelf life of fruitsAlbay 18 2 to 5 Asexual Shorter shelf life of fruits no established market Catanduanes 16 3 to 10 Asexual Shorter shelf life of fruits and no established market

CORN GERMPLASM (CGUARD PROJECT-1) conducted in collaboration with IPB -UPLB.

A total of 206 accessions of native corn were collected from 19 municipalities of Camarines Sur with 127 collections; 4 municipalities of Albay with

14 collections and Masbate involving 11 municipalities with 65 collections. Thirty nine (39) native corn accessions collected were planted last June 2016 for seed multiplication. From the 39 accessions, a total of 22.76 kilos of seeds were produced. Passport data per native corn collections were encoded in the data base of CGUARD project. The samples were properly processed and were tested for viability and planted in the station for characterization.

Treatment Average Yield Tons/ha.

Dry Wet Season Season

T1 Control 5.2 5 Farmer’s Practice T2 60% inorganic + 50% Bio-organic 6.57 6.5 T3 70% inorganic + 30% Bio-organic 6.20 6.3 T4 100% or full Bio-organic 5.40 6.2

On-Station Trials of Bio-Organic Fertilizer Products on Lowland Rice and Grafted Pili

Seedlings in Region 5

Result of the study showed that combination of inorganic and organic fertilizer at 50:50 rate can obtain a yield of 6.5 tons/ha for rice. While for grafted pili pro-duction, there were significant differences among treat-ments on percent survival, number of days to shoot ap-pearance and number of leaves produced. Application of bio-organic in combination with inorganic obtained a higher percent survival (1 month after grafting), ear-liest number of days to shoot appearance and highest number of leaves produced. Economic analysis of the study also showed that Treatment 4 (full use of bio-or-ganic fertilizer) for grafting pili obtained a highest return of investment with 4.34 and least cost of production at Php 10.31/pc compared with application of inorganic fertilizer alone. This bio-organic fertilizer can be recom-mended for the propagation of grafted pili especially for those farmers who are into commercial production as it ensures high survival rate and low production cost.

The Community-Based Participatory Rural Appraisal on Farmer’s Capability Advancement and Resource Empowerment (CPAR FarmCARE) project focused on technology promotion and intervention strat-egy for the farmers

For rice, technologies promoted were based on farmers’ needs that include the use of high quality seeds at 40kg/ha; use of MOET and LCC. There were 34 and 23 farmers in Camarines Sur and Albay, respectively in-volved in t

Documents

Message of the Regional Executive Director 3bicol.da.gov.ph/rfo5newweb/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/DA_Bicol_AnnualReport2016.pdfBicol region still managed to provide various agricultural