SURALLAH, South Cotabato — Seventeen durian farmers in Surallah took a significant step toward strengthening their sector after participating in an organizational orientation conducted by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg) of South Cotabato held at the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist in Surallah.
According to Diane Mae Canales, Agriculturist I, the orientation also served as a venue for discussions on the opportunities and advantages available to organized farmer groups, particularly in accessing government assistance and agricultural interventions.
“It was organized to help local growers establish a formal organization that will unify durian producers in the area and improve coordination, collaboration, and access to agricultural support programs,” Canales said.
The group will operate under the name Tri-People Durian Farmers Association.
During the orientation, participating farmers were guided on the importance of building a strong and organized association, including leadership structure and organizational management. An election of officers was also held to officially identify the leaders who will oversee the association’s future activities and programs.
“OPAg distributed 60 packs of humus to participants to help improve soil productivity and encourage sustainable farming practices,” Canales shared.
The initiative forms part of the broader effort of the Provincial Government of South Cotabato to strengthen farmer organizations, enhance agricultural productivity, and promote long-term sustainability in the province’s durian industry.
