LAKE SEBU, South Cotabato — A Multi-Purpose Drying Pavement (MPDP) has been officially turned over to the KESEBUNG Tboli and Ubo IPs Association Inc. (KETAUIPA) in Lemsual 1, Barangay Tasiman, benefiting 104 farmer-beneficiaries as part of the provincial government’s continuing support for Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities and local agriculture.
The project, which aims to improve post-harvest handling and increase farmers’ income particularly in far-flung communities was turned over by Provincial Agriculturist Raul D. Teves, DVM, together with Engr. Joan Batobalani, Supervising Agriculturist from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg), to the recipients earlier this month.
The MPDP is designed to speed up the drying process of agricultural products such as coffee and corn, ensuring better-quality produce and higher income for farmers, especially in remote areas like Barangay Tasiman.
Farmer representative Noel Cafon expressed gratitude for the project, highlighting its impact on the livelihood of beneficiaries.
“Dako ang pagpasalamat namon nga mga farmers, hindi lang sa sini nga sitio kundi pati man sa iban nga sitios kay natagaan gid kami sang dako nga bulig. Una sa tanan, nagapasalamat gid kami kay Gov. Wala gid kami nagsala sa pag-boto sa iya sang una, hasta subong siya gyapon ang amon suportahan. May blessing gid nga nag-abot,” Cafon said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Teves highlighted the need to balance agricultural productivity with environmental protection. He encouraged the introduction of agroforestry initiatives, noting that while corn remains a primary crop, planting trees can help preserve the environment and protect mountainous areas.
The project forms part of the province’s broader strategy to reduce post-harvest losses, increase farmers’ income, and promote sustainable agricultural development for Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities in South Cotabato.
