Ligao City: A farmers group in Albay received a PHP1.5-million four-wheel farm tractor from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) to help boost agricultural productivity and improve the earning capacity of agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs). The machinery was turned over to the Samahan ng mga Agraryong Magsasaka sa Pag-Unlad, Inc. (SAMPI) during a ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement in Ligao City Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Warren Sambajon, DAR-Albay Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project (CRFPSP) point person, stated that the tractor would increase both the cooperative's productivity and income by 10 percent. "This project directly supports DAR's long-term goals. It will not only enhance farm mechanization and productivity but also improve the economic stability of our ARBS," he said. The use of the tractor is expected to reduce production costs by approximately PHP5,000 per hectare.

After the turnover, SAMPI members participated in the first session of a six-part corn check training, which focused on land seed selection. Sambajon mentioned that the initiative was part of the CRFPSP on major crop-based farm productivity enhancement and sustainable livelihood support. "Our goal at DAR is to equip ARBOs with the capability to sustain their agricultural operations, ensure food security, and achieve long-term rural development," Sambajon added.

He also noted that technical and development training would be provided to beneficiaries to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the tractor. "The DAR will prepare quarterly project reports and tracking of the project status using the required forms. There will be periodic inspection, supervision, and monitoring as well. There will also be quality assurance and final inspection of the project," Sambajon explained.

SAMPI president Angelita Plodario expressed her gratitude, highlighting that the farm tractor is a valuable asset for the group's 59 members and the corn farming community. "Makakagaan po ito sa aming pagsasaka. Maraming salamat po sa DAR at hindi pinababayaan ang SAMPI. Wala pong sukuan, walang iwanan (This will ease our farming work. We are deeply thankful to the DAR for never neglecting SAMPI. There is no giving up, and no one gets left behind)," Plodario said in a news release.