TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) – In the move towards digital farming, the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 2 has launched the agro-climatic advisory portal (ACAP) in Region 2 to enhance further climate-resilient farming practices in Cagayan Valley.
The initiative is part of the Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture program, aimed at enhancing climate-resilient agriculture across the region.
ACAP, a cutting-edge digital platform providing Climate Information Services (CIS), delivers timely, location-specific advice to farmers.
ACAP generates actionable insights and crop recommendations based on dynamic weather conditions, crop cycles, and other relevant parameters using meteorological data from the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s daily weather forecasts.
The portal is designed to assist extension workers in creating and disseminating appropriate and tailored advisories to agricultural communities, ensuring farmers are well-informed and prepared for various climate risks enabling the farmers to make informed decisions regarding crop planning, irrigation scheduling, pest and disease management, and optimal resource utilization.
Kay S. Olivas, regional technical director for Research and Regulations, the portal aims to establish climate-resilient agriculture in villages.
“The major component of the program is the establishment of villages adopting climate-resilient agriculture technologies and practices, which helps increase the adaptive capacity of villagers. These villages were identified using Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment maps,” Olivas explained.
Additionally, ACAP aims to empower farmers with appropriate climate-resilient measures specific to their localities, ultimately enhancing productivity, promoting food security, and fostering economic stability.
Karl Arian B. Fernandez, an ACAP staff member, highlighted the transformative impact of the portal.
“Traditionally, farmers relied on age-old practices and localized knowledge, often vulnerable to weather and climate change uncertainties. With the advent of the advisory portal, farmers can access real-time updates and personalized recommendations tailored to their specific geographical locations and farming practices. This enhances productivity and reduces risks associated with crop failure, promoting food security and economic stability in agricultural communities,” Fernandez said.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in the DA’s efforts to modernize farming practices and build resilience against climate change, ensuring the sustainability and prosperity of agricultural communities in Region 2. (OTB/MFJ with reports from DA 2)
