Anao, Cabagan, Isabela (February 7, 2025) – The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office No. 02 (DA RFO 2), under the visionary leadership of Regional Executive Director Rose Mary G. Aquino, launched the ambitious Backyard Egg Multiplier (BEM) project in Cagayan Valley, marking a significant milestone.

This initiative seeks to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to farmers, senior citizens, youth, and women’s groups, ultimately strengthening self-sufficiency in egg production and enhancing local nutrition. As part of the project, 200 Ready-to-Lay Chickens complete with cages, water systems, feeds, and probiotics were awarded to Barangay Anao, serving as a pilot and model community.

The Barangay Anao Agri-Development Association (BAADA), comprising senior citizens, farmers, and youth, is among the identified beneficiaries of this transformative project. Recognizing that the municipality is prone to being affected by typhoons, impacting residents’ livelihoods, this endeavor holds particular significance in bolstering economic resilience.

In a heartfelt address, Honorable Walfrido Binag, Punong Barangay of Anao, expressed gratitude for his barangay being selected as a project model, extending appreciation to the DA RFO 2 and pledging full support for the initiative’s success.

Director Aquino delivered an inspiring speech underscoring the nutritional value of eggs as an affordable protein source, especially crucial in remote areas. Commending the beneficiaries for their proactive engagement, she emphasized the importance of their continued stewardship to evaluate the project’s impact, hinting at its potential expansion to other barangays in the region.

Aquino highlighted the role of senior citizens and the youth in egg production, citing its low labor intensity and income-generating potential for them. She outlined marketing strategies for the egg production, aiming to supply KADIWA outlets and establish new outlets along National Highways in Cabagan for wider market reach.

She concluded by emphasizing that this initiative not only addresses egg shortages in the region but also aligns with government efforts toward sustainable livelihoods and food security nationwide.

An integral part of the event was the detailed presentation of the project framework by Regional Technical Director Dr. Roberto C. Busania, stressing the vital role of backyard farmers in food production and showcasing the beneficiaries’ commitment to the cause.

Cabagan Mayor Atty. Christopher A. Mamauag, represented by Sangguniang Bayan Member Hon. Stepjen Reyes, pledged the municipality’s support for the project and expressed hope for its replication in other barangays.

Municipal Agriculturist Reynaldo Gumiran, who will oversee project monitoring, disease diagnosis, and treatment, offered his expertise in layer production.

BAADA President, Janet Quilang, expressed the association’s gratitude to the DA RFO 2 for selecting them as the pilot beneficiary and pledged their full support and cooperation for the project’s successful implementation.

The launch of the Backyard Egg Multiplier project in Cagayan Valley represents a significant step forward in advancing local agriculture, strengthening economic empowerment, and promoting food security for the region and beyond.