13/07/2024
"Celebrating Agricultural Resilience: Highlights from the 1st AMIA Congress in Bukidnon"
Dr. Eric Randy R. Politud, Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation (VCRI) at the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines - Claveria Campus (USTP-Claveria), played a pivotal role in the groundbreaking 1st Adaptation and Mitigation Initiatives in Agriculture (AMIA) Congress held at the Northern Mindanao Agricultural Crops and Livestocks Research Center (NMACLRC), Dalwangan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon on July 11-12, 2024.
Organized by the Department of Agriculture - Regional Field Office - X under the theme "Klima Atimana Para sa Malahutayong Pag-uma ug Ekonomiya," this historic event aimed to foster resilience in farming and fishing communities through Climate Resilient Agriculture (CRA) practices and integrated support services.
The congress showcased the progress and achievements of thirteen AMIA villages across Region X, illustrating their evolution from initial support to comprehensive capacity-building activities and the provision of free farm supplies and equipment. Nine villages participated in a spirited Best Booth Competition, where their innovative products and entrepreneurial prowess were on full display. Libona, Bukidnon emerged victorious with the grand prize, followed by Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon in second place, and Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental in third.
A highlight of the congress was the fiercely contested Best AMIA Presenter Award, featuring presentations from four villages. The cooperative from Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon claimed the top honor, with Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental, and Libona, Bukidnon securing second and third places respectively. These presentations vividly demonstrated how AMIA support has catalyzed remarkable growth in cooperative incomes and investment returns, empowering members through targeted initiatives.
The event attracted participation from esteemed academic institutions like Central Mindanao University and USTP-Claveria, alongside key government agencies and industry leaders such as the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), Agri-Negosyo Loan Program Corporation (ACPC), and DOST. Dr. Alicia G. Ilaga, National Director of the CRA Office, reaffirmed her commitment to Region X's AMIA initiatives, recognizing the region as a trailblazer in agricultural resilience. Newly appointed Regional Director Mr. Apollo Y. Pacamalan's inspirational address, delivered by Ms. Cora A. Dumayaca, RTD for Research and Regulations, underscored the collaborative efforts driving regional agricultural development.
The congress provided a platform for stakeholders including DOST-PAGASA, Pilmico, Cargill, CJ Seeds, and Daesang Philippines to showcase their contributions to sustainable agriculture. Cultural performances by Bukidnon State University added a vibrant touch to the proceedings, captivating attendees with traditional festival dances.
The first day concluded with social interactions, while the second day featured guided tours of NMACLRC's research projects and demonstration farms, offering firsthand insights into cutting-edge agricultural innovations.
Dr. Politud's role as a judge and evaluator in both the Best Booth Contest and the Best AMIA Presenter Award underscored USTP-Claveria's commitment to advancing agricultural innovation through rigorous assessment and collaboration with the Department of Agriculture.
USTP-Claveria's active participation in the inaugural AMIA Congress signals its dedication to enhancing research and innovation in agriculture, paving the way for continued collaboration and sustainable development in Region X and beyond.
