DAR partners with LGU and farm cooperative to launch Farm Business School

POLANGUI, Albay – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), in collaboration with the Municipality of Polangui, the Barangay Local Government Unit of Gamot, and the Gamot Luya Dalogo Farmers Association (GALUDA FA), has launched the Farm Business School (FBS) through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held at the GALUDA FA Office in Purok 1, Barangay Gamot, Polangui, Albay.

DAR Chief Agrarian Reform Officer Regente D. Dioneda, Sr. said the concept of FBS is to foster robust partnerships with Local Government Units (LGUs) and Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) to transform farmer-beneficiaries into farmer-entrepreneurs by enhancing their entrepreneurial skills.

"We are committed to helping our farmers not just grow crops but also their businesses," Dioneda stated. "Through the FBS, we hope to see them thrive as entrepreneurs."

DAR Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer Felipe Llorando shared his optimism regarding the FBS, expressing hopes that GALUDA FA will soon become a recognized learning site. He also highlighted the potential for the FBS to help GALUDA FA generate income and achieve self-sustainability in their agricultural ventures.

The Farm Business School will consist of 25 comprehensive learning sessions. These sessions will cover various topics, including advanced farming techniques, farm business management, marketing strategies, costing, and basic accounting. The primary goal is to equip Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) with the necessary skills to transition from traditional farming to successful agribusiness, thereby improving their livelihood.

GALUDA FA President Bob B. Razon expressed his gratitude to the DAR, LGU, and his fellow GALUDA FA members in his commitment message. He outlined their ambitious plans for the association's growth and development, including the expansion to nearby barangays, enhancing their processing center, and pursuing registration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). He called upon the LGU for its continued support in these endeavors.

Municipal Mayor Raymond Adrian E. Salceda congratulated the enrollees of the FBS and expressed his hopes that the program will significantly enhance