Pangasinan: The provincial government of Pangasinan and the Department of Agriculture (DA), along with other national government agencies in the Ilocos Region, are set to establish the Ilocos Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Resources, Research, and Extension for Development Network (AFRREDN).

According to Philippines News Agency, DA-Ilocos Region senior science research specialist Cathy Pastor stated that the initiative aims to create a more efficient system for collaboration and service delivery to farmers and fisherfolk. Pastor emphasized that AFRREDN is intended to unify the region's research development and extension networks, merging the previously separate networks to enhance the delivery of research, technology, and extension services, particularly in sharing technical expertise and resources.

Pastor noted, "It would also encourage our resources to be fully optimized for the sharing of technical expertise, supplies, and costs. This institutionalization is aimed at implementing a unified approach to the delivery of agricultural research and extension development services."

Furthermore, Pastor explained that previous research results were often underutilized due to a lack of connection with extension services. AFRREDN aims to harmonize these efforts to better meet the needs of farmers and fisherfolk in the region.

A resolution authorizing Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III to enter into a memorandum of agreement on behalf of the provincial government for the AFRREDN was proposed for the approval of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) on Monday. Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino remarked that the network would consolidate concerned agencies, thereby facilitating easier information dissemination, research, and project coordination.