The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Philippines is taking significant steps to improve its operations and better support the country’s farmers and fisherfolk. One of these initiatives is the updating of its electronic database, known as the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture. This database contains crucial information about individual farmers and fisherfolk, which is essential for effective planning, implementation, and monitoring of agricultural projects and interventions.
The DA recognizes the importance of digitalization in reducing costs throughout the food value chain, expanding market access, and making agriculture a more profitable venture. By updating the electronic database, the department aims to streamline its processes, provide wider market opportunities for farmers, and ensure a stable supply of reasonably-priced food for consumers.
To expedite the collection, updating, and validation of stakeholders’ personal and farm data, the DA plans to mobilize approximately 16,000 staff members across the country. This large-scale effort is necessary due to the extensive coverage required, as the Philippines consists of numerous islands. The initial estimates suggest that there are around 10 million farmers and fisherfolk in the country, with many of them identified as the poorest. The DA had a starting list of 1.4 million stakeholders before the update commenced.
In addition to the department’s own staff, the DA is collaborating with local government units to ensure comprehensive data collection and verification. The registration and updating of records and profiles of farmers, farmworkers, fisherfolk, and agri-youth will help validate the estimated numbers and identify those who truly require assistance from the DA. It is crucial to differentiate between farmers and farmworkers, as the latter do not own the farm or crops. Farmworkers, who are only seasonally employed, should be directed to other government agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, for appropriate support.
Agriculture plays a significant role in the Philippines, employing one in every four Filipinos. Recognizing the importance of efficient monitoring and real-time recording of agri-fishery information, the DA began upgrading its management information system two years ago. This upgrade aims to enhance project monitoring and intervention, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. is a strong advocate for digitalizing the DA’s operations. He has issued memoranda outlining the parameters for the registry update, endorsing the digitalization project. Secretary Laurel believes that this initiative will improve efficiency in the department’s operations, project implementation, and monitoring. Furthermore, he plans to establish an agricultural statistics office to enhance the DA’s ability to manage food demand and production, ultimately benefiting farmers and reducing the need for importation.
In conclusion, the Department of Agriculture’s efforts to update its electronic database demonstrate its commitment to supporting farmers and fisherfolk in the Philippines. By digitalizing operations and improving data collection and verification processes, the DA aims to enhance agricultural planning, increase market access, and provide consumers with stable supplies of affordable food. This comprehensive approach will ensure that resources are allocated effectively and that those who truly need assistance receive the support they require.
Source: www.da.gov.ph
