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| Ilocos Norte Governor Imee R. Marcos during the second Water Summit. (Alaric Yanos) |
Jennifer T. Pambid
PGIN-CMO
LAOAG CITY—With the expected adverse impact of climate change in Ilocos Norte, the provincial government here is intensifying efforts to address possible agricultural issues, primarily severe drought.
To achieve this, the provincial government is visiting various agricultural communities through its “Paspas Dur-as Biag ti Away!” program. The visit would help the local government identify farmers’ problems and needs.
The agricultural program was launched in November last year and was integrated with the Manang Imee’s Capitol Express.
The program focuses on enhancing agriculture quality by providing support services to Ilocos Norte farmers. It also attempts to improve farming practices in the provinces.
Ilocos Norte Governor Maria Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos said the program ensures farmers’ association in the province are given agricultural products and equipment. Included are seeds, tractors, water pumps and backpack sprayers, all of which enhance productivity.
Pasuquin Liga ng mga Barangay President Chino Aguinaldo, one of the recipients of water pumps and backpack sprayers, thanked Ms. Marcos for her efforts to help the farmers.
“We thank her for prioritizing the welfare of the farmers. These will be a great help to the farmers in our barangay since the primary source of livelihood here in Pasuquin comes from farming,” he said in Ilocano.
Noting that drought may further threaten numerous communities that rely on farming, Ms. Marcos partnered the provincial government with different institutions. The partnerships are expected to address climate change’s adverse impacts in the province.
The local government has also started developing and improving small farm reservoirs, water impounding projects and diversion dams.
“We have enjoined both public and private sectors to take part in our advocacy in building a sustainable and resilient community. Our Provincial Resiliency Council has intensified its information dissemination regarding disaster preparedness as well as our promotion of environment-friendly practices which includes water conservation and planting high value crops,” Ms. Marcos said.