THE Department of Agriculture (DA) wants farmers’ cooperatives to improve their livelihood by going high-tech.
This was announced as Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday signed Memorandum Circular 22 that launched the Agricultural Cooperative Enterprise Development (ACED) Services, which will operate in the central and regional field offices of the DA to assist agricultural groups nationwide.
ACED is envisioned to lead the digital transformation of agricultural co-ops by using data analytics, online marketplaces, and climate adaptation tools — all aimed to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. Photo from Department of Agriculture
The program will also help create policies and plans for the groups, coordinate their efforts, and oversee the implementation of projects to address development gaps and adjust strategies as needed.
The Office of the Undersecretary for Operations, now led by Undersecretary Roger Navarro, will oversee the operations of ACED.
“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has highlighted the crucial role that transforming and consolidating farmers’ cooperatives and associations plays in improving the livelihoods of our agricultural community. These efforts are key to advancing agricultural development and ensuring food security,” Tiu Laurel said.
“By fostering increased income, adopting modern farming technologies, and enhancing food security and agricultural exports, we are taking significant steps toward a more productive and sustainable agricultural sector.”
ACED will also offer comprehensive training programs for cooperatives and associations, and partnerships with other government agencies, private institutions and civil society groups.
The DA said these will prioritize skills enhancement and knowledge development.
Tiu Laurel pointed out ACED is designed to streamline efforts and maximize resources allocated for cooperative support. The services will implement feedback mechanisms to continually improve and adjust strategies based on stakeholder input.
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