Davao de Oro Agri Trade Fair Champions Youth Farmers with Modern Innovations
The Provincial Agriculturist Office of Davao de Oro has unveiled plans for this year's Agri Trade Fair, placing a significant emphasis on empowering youth farmers to secure the future of agriculture in the region. Ronald Sibayan, officer-in-charge of the office, highlighted that the event will serve as a critical platform for young agriculturalists to engage with cutting-edge technologies, including drones, digital advisory systems, and smart farming innovations.
Addressing the Aging Farmer Population
With the average age of Filipino farmers currently at 57, Sibayan stressed the urgent need to prepare the next generation. He emphasized that youth farmers in Davao de Oro have already been organized into clubs, such as winners of the Young Farmer Challenge and members of the 4H Club, to recognize their contributions and foster their development.
"We are giving priority to youth farmers, that's why we are promoting and informing them on the latest technology and digital advisory in terms of agriculture and fishery farming," Sibayan stated. He added, "There should be people that will replace them, and we know that the youth is the hope of our land."
Showcasing Agricultural Diversity and Resilience
The fair will feature exhibits from all 11 municipalities of Davao de Oro, each displaying their primary commodities. Sibayan noted that these displays are not just about products but also symbolize the struggles and resilience of local farmers and fisherfolk. Additionally, nine spaces will be dedicated to nursery operators, showcasing ornamentals, forest trees, fruit trees, and landscaped areas, while 13 booths will host input suppliers like feed companies and fertilizer providers.
Enhancing Market Linkages and Competitions
To boost the agricultural economy, the event aims to establish formal and informal marketing agreements, providing a venue for investors to explore local products. An investment forum will facilitate connections between producers and buyers. Exciting competitions will also be held, with prizes for the best booth reaching up to P75,000 for first place, along with special awards for innovation and sales.
Educational components include Commodity Day lectures on smart agriculture and a Broiler Industry Development Forum to prepare for upcoming production increases tied to a new dressing plant in Monkayo.
