Ilagan City, Isabela | April 29, 2026 — The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office No. 2 (DA RFO 2) successfully conducted a Sagip Saka Act Orientation and Consultation Meeting on April 29, 2026, at the DA–Cagayan Valley Research Center (DACVRC), San Felipe, City of Ilagan, Isabela. The activity was attended by 24 FFEDIS-registered Farmers’ and Fisherfolk Cooperatives and Associations (FCAs), along with representatives from FOD, R4D, AMAD, RCES and APCOs.

The orientation aimed to increase awareness of Republic Act No. 11321, otherwise known as the Sagip Saka Act, and to inform participating FCAs of its benefits, particularly on how the law can enhance their market access and business opportunities through its Section 3, 10, and 11

Ms. Ma. Rosario Paccarangan presented the salient features of the Sagip Saka Act and discussed GPPB Circular No. 02, s. 2025, highlighting the procedural guidelines on Negotiated Procurement – Sagip Saka (NPSS) and the Enhanced Capacity Development Plan designed to further strengthen farmers’ and fisherfolk organizations.

Meanwhile, Dr. Rose Mary G. Aquino, Regional Executive Director of DA RFO 2, encouraged the FCAs to expand beyond their existing lines of business by venturing into catering and food services. This recommendation aligns with DA RFO 2’s adoption and institutionalization of “Pinggang Pinoy” in all official activities of the regional office, its attached agencies, and partner local government units (LGUs).

The activity was spearheaded by the Regional Sagip Saka Implementing Unit (RSSIU) as part of the region-wide implementation of the Sagip Saka Act. It was made possible through the strong support and commitment of Director Rose Mary G. Aquino, underscoring the administration’s dedication to inclusive and sustainable agricultural development.

Overall, the orientation was deemed a success, marked by the active participation of attendees and the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved. It reflects the continuing commitment of DA RFO 2 to ensure that farmers and fisherfolk are well-informed, supported, and empowered as vital contributors to the agricultural sector.

The DA RFO 2–AMAD remains dedicated to strengthening market linkages, enhancing institutional capacities, and promoting inclusive growth for farmers’ and fisherfolk organizations across the Cagayan Valley Region.