Northern Samar province is eyeing PHP1.2 billion in funds to finance various projects meant to modernize its agriculture and fishery sector in the next six years.

Provincial Agriculture Officer Jose Luis Acompañado said Wednesday 50 percent of the funding requirement will be coming from the provincial government, 40 percent from the national government, and 10 percent from the private sector.

Of the PHP1.2-billion budget needed, PHP535 million will be for crop production and marketing enhancement programs, PHP286.55 million for livestock and poultry production and marketing enhancement programs, and PHP373 million for fishery industry development programs.

The strategy is outlined under the Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Modernization Plan (PAFMP) 2024-2030 approved by Northern Samar Provincial Board members after a thorough discussion and review.

“The approval of PAFMP 2024-2030 marks a significant step forward for Northern Samar, as the plan will serve as a guiding framework for achieving agricultural sustainability and economic growth in the province,” Acompañado told the Philippine News Agency.

Among the projects are the construction and rehabilitation of agricultural facilities, irrigation systems development, farm access roads, procurement and distribution of farm machinery and equipment, adaptive research and demonstration, and training.

The plan aims to introduce new technologies, improve resource management, and optimize production systems; address vulnerabilities in food production; promote self-sufficiency; increase the competitiveness of local produce; create jobs; and attract investments in the agricultural sector.

Other goals are to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts and extreme weather events and access better tools, trainings, markets, and infrastructures. (PNA)