In an age dominated by mechanization and advanced technology, certain remote mountainous regions continue to depend on traditional methods for transporting goods across challenging landscapes. The Department of Agriculture-Davao, through its Livestock Program, has recently stepped in to support one such community by providing practical assistance.
Equine Support for Highland Farmers
The Balukot Farmers Association (BFA), located in Sitio Balukot, Barangay Kalbay, Jose Abad Santos town, has received four horses from the DA-Davao Livestock Program. This initiative aims to help farmers haul their agricultural produce, including corn, bananas, and various root crops, from their upland farms to the town center.
Jefferson M. Egad, President of the Balukot Farmers Association, expressed relief and gratitude, stating, "It won't be hard for us anymore to carry our produce from our highland farm areas down to the center of the town because of these horses." The association's members cultivate a diverse range of crops such as corn, kamote (sweet potato), banana, upland rice, coconut, and abaca in the rugged terrain of Jose Abad Santos.
Regional Distribution and Commitment
This distribution is part of a broader effort by the DA-Davao Livestock Program, which has allocated a total of twelve horses to various highland farmer associations across the region. The Balukot Farmers Association was selected as a recipient under this livestock assistance program, highlighting the ongoing support for agriculturally active but geographically isolated communities.
The BFA has acknowledged the assistance from the DA-Davao Livestock Program, along with provincial and municipal agriculturists' offices, and has pledged to provide proper care for the horses. The association is committed to ensuring that the livestock is used responsibly and benefits all its members, thereby fostering a sense of communal responsibility and sustainable practice.
Addressing Transportation Challenges
The provision of horses serves as a strategic intervention designed to aid farmers in highland and far-flung areas where access to roads and conventional transport services remains severely limited. This approach not only addresses immediate logistical challenges but also supports the broader goals of enhancing local food production and improving livelihoods.
Through its Livestock Program, the Department of Agriculture-Davao continues to extend its reach to farming communities in geographically disadvantaged locations like Sitio Balukot. By offering practical solutions that alleviate the physical demands of farm work, the program contributes to strengthening agricultural output and promoting economic resilience in these remote areas.
