In a continued effort to empower local farmers and boost agri-entrepreneurship, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 02 (DA RFO 02), through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), awarded over ₱57.5 million in financial grants to 19 farmer cooperatives and associations, and local government units under the KADIWA Financial Grant Assistance Program during a regional awarding ceremony held on April 10, 2025, at Robinsons Place Tuguegarao.
These 19 beneficiaries show great promise in linking farmers directly to market opportunities. As proud recipients of the KADIWA Financial Grant Assistance Program, they are set to expand their ventures and bring more locally made Filipino products closer to consumers.
On the other hand, Ms. Ma. Rosario U. Paccarangan, Chief of DA-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (DA-AMAD), expressed her sincere gratitude to the 19 beneficiaries, acknowledging their hard work and dedication in uplifting local Agribusiness.
“To our 19 KADIWA financial grant recipients, your vast experiences and acquired knowledge in the operationalization of your economic enterprises serve as a testament to how truly deserving you are of this support. This day also belongs to you. Your stories continue to inspire us all.”
She also added that the true purpose behind their work is not simply for awards or recognition, but for the people they serve, Filipino farmers and fisherfolk, the youth, and all other stakeholders who rely on their commitment and dedication.
Furthermore, the total number of individuals benefiting from the 19 proponents is 34,914, with a total grant amount of ₱57,500,000, which includes four FCAs and LGUs from 2023 to 2024.
Meanwhile, as the event concluded, Ms. Kay S. Olivas, Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, delivered her message to the financial grant assistance beneficiaries.
“Sa ating mga FCAs, mga big brothers and small brothers na nakatanggap ng financial grants, nawa’y napunta po sa mabubuting kamay ang pinagkatiwala ng gobyernong assistance sa inyo.”
She further stressed that the number one culprit behind business failures is miscommunication among members. The key lesson, she noted, is that transparency and good governance among offices and their members are crucial to the success of every corporate like business.
With the continued rollout of initiatives like the KADIWA Financial Grant Assistance Program, the Department of Agriculture reaffirms its unwavering commitment to strengthening agribusiness in Region 02. By empowering local farmers and cooperatives with the support they need, the DA envisions a more resilient, inclusive, and market-driven agricultural sector.
Via Castle Castillo
Photos by Erwin C. Cachero