The delivery of extension services that used to be performed by the Department of Agriculture (DA) is devolved to the Local Government Units (LGUs) through RA 7160 also known as the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991.
The role of the LGUs of providing extension services is among the basic foundations for sustained agricultural development.
The recent orientation conducted by DA for the Local Chief Executives gave access for the promotion of programs, services, and interventions in the current administration. Discussions on the processes in availing the interventions were presented and clarified by the DA to guide LGUs for proper and smooth implementation.
“We recognize that the LGUs represent the state’s most direct link with the country’s constituents. Their familiarity with local conditions provides them an advantage in being able to identify what is best for their communities. They could be effective launching pads for national programs, including food security,” said Regional Executive Director Renato P. Manantan.
The decentralization limited the DA’s supervision over the LGU personnel working directly with the farmers. As a National Government Agency, DA only coordinates agricultural development with the LGUs.
“DA cannot do it alone without our partners that is why we are gearing up our counterparts. We want to engage everyone to be partakers to fulfill the goal of the present administration. This is for the agriculture sector development and in pursuit of attaining the Philippine development goal of inclusive growth and poverty reduction,” emphasized Director Manantan.
DA continues to strengthen its ties to the LGUs to effectively strategize the support not just for the farmers but for all citizens. With LGUs decision making, needs of the community are better identified, thus, appropriate technologies and projects have better chances to be implemented. (Rhea C. Abao – DA-Caraga Information Section)
