Two farmers’ cooperatives in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, received a combined PHP10.7 million in government support on Tuesday, aimed at strengthening agricultural productivity and expanding market access for local producers.

The Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region (DA-13) said Wednesday that the Western Visayas Agro Industrial Cooperative (WEVAICO) and the Bislig City Organic Agriculture Cooperative (BISCOACO) were the beneficiaries of the intervention, which includes machinery, equipment, and livelihood packages.

WEVAICO received PHP8.71 million worth of agricultural machinery through the DA’s Corn Program, including a soybean sorter, a hauling truck, and a multicommodity thresher. Cooperative chairperson Nelita Sabangan said the equipment will significantly enhance soybean production and enable members to tap into markets beyond Surigao del Sur.

“The machinery and equipment will help us improve our soybean production and reach more markets not only in Surigao del Sur but also in neighboring provinces in the region,” Sabangan said.

Meanwhile, BISCOACO was granted PHP2 million under the Livestock Economic Enterprise Development (LEED) program for a Ready-to-Lay Chicken Module project. The package includes 1,000 heads of chicken, animal housing, feeds, and veterinary supplies.

Eduardo Paira, chairman of BISCOACO, said the initiative will not only ensure a steady supply of eggs in Bislig City and nearby towns but also provide members with new income opportunities.

“This project will also help our members as we plan to bring our egg products to the different markets in the city,” Paira said.

The DA-13 said the interventions are part of its broader efforts to empower rural communities and promote sustainable agriculture in Surigao del Sur. (PNA)