USM Recognizes Farmers’ Roles in Sustainable Food Production During FFD 2024

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) conducted a field tour and open forum for farmers from various areas of Cotabato province during the Farmers’ Field Day on September 27, 2024, at the University of Southern Mindanao Agricultural Research and Development Center (USMARDC) with the theme: “Pagpapatibay ng Katatagan sa Pagbabago ng Klima Tungo sa Pangmatagalang Pagsasaka.”

USM showcased its agricultural resources, including the Smart Cacao Budwood and Greenhouse Facilities, and the Weather Station.

Farmers who participated were from Magpet, Kidapawan, Makilala, Mlang, Matalam, Kabacan, Carmen, Pikit, and Aleosan.

Following the tour, an open forum was held, providing farmers with the opportunity to consult USM experts on issues affecting their livelihoods. Farmers raised concerns and sought advice on solutions and preventive measures for the challenges they face in agriculture.

During the forum, Dr. Marcos F. Monderin, the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), reinforced the University’s partnership with farmers.

“Ang partnership na ito ay hindi matatapos sa programang ito…Pumunta po kayo dito kung may mga pangangailangan po kayo,” he said.

The event was attended by Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, Vice President for Research Development and Extension (VPRDE), Dr. Marcos F. Monderin, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) and the directors under the RDE unit: Dr. Julius Jerome G. Ele (SOXAARRDEC), Dr. Lydia C. Pascual (RDO), and Dr. Glyn G. Magbanua (ESO). Also in attendance were Dr. Ardniel A. Baladjay, Director of USM PALMA Cluster Campuses and Prof. Bryan Lloyd P. Bretaña, Executive Assistant for International Linkages/ for Research.

As a gesture of support, the University distributed free corn seeds, various planting materials from SOXAARRDEC as well as various products from PCC and the High Value Crops and Processing Center.