MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Farmers in Lanao del Sur expressed their appreciation for the vital support they received for their agricultural and livestock operations. Through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) of the Bangsamoro government, they received a warehouse, solar dryer, and livestock shelters, aimed at enhancing their productivity.
The Farmers’ Cooperative in Barangay Amaiditimbang, Masiu town, was granted a warehouse for crop storage and a solar dryer to improve post-harvest processes. Cooperative member Najer Ali thanked the Bangsamoro Government for providing these facilities, emphasizing their importance, particularly during harvest seasons.
“For a long time, we struggled with inadequate storage and drying facilities. Now, we have a proper warehouse and solar dryer that will help us preserve and process our crops efficiently,” Ali said.
The cooperative also received a cattle shed to protect livestock during extreme weather conditions.
Omelhair Gandamato, another member, expressed gratitude for the shelter, which will support their livestock project.
“We are very grateful because we not only received cattle from MAFAR, but they also provided us with a proper shelter for them. This will ensure that our cattle are well-protected, especially during the rainy season,” Gandamato said.
The Tabay Coconut Farm Producer Cooperative in Barangay Budas, Balabagan town, also received a goat shed to support their goat farming project.
These efforts are part of MAFAR’s ongoing efforts to strengthen agriculture in the Bangsamoro region by improving productivity, reducing post-harvest losses, and promoting sustainable farming practices.
The turnover was led by MAFAR Special Development Fund program officer Najib Usman, who encouraged the farmers to fully utilize the facilities and maintain them for long-term community benefit. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur/with reports from MAFAR)