CDA XII Participates in Maitum Strengthening of RBOs
The Office of the Municipal Agriculturist of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Maitum, Sarangani Province, recently conducted a comprehensive forum for Rural-Based Organizations (RBOs) through its RBO/FCA Coordinating Unit. This initiative brought together various government agencies and local organizations to strengthen partnerships and promote sustainable agricultural development in the municipality.
The forum featured several key government agencies that provided valuable insights and guidance to participating organizations. The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) XII delivered a basic orientation on establishing cooperatives and presented programs specifically designed for coconut farmer cooperatives, associations, and organizations under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Program (CFIDP). The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XII shared information about various programs available for associations, along with detailed requirements for proposal submissions.
Local government representation was equally comprehensive. The Office of the Secretary to the Sangguniang Bayan of Maitum explained the requirements for Sangguniang Bayan accreditation. The Municipal Local Government Operations Office highlighted the crucial role of associations in Local Special Bodies and emphasized the importance of establishing a Local People’s Council to enhance participation in governance. The forum also addressed provincial-level requirements, as the Provincial Government has initiated calls for accreditation as a prerequisite for selecting members of Local Special Bodies throughout the province. Through the Civil Society Organization (CSO) Desk of Maitum, participants were informed about the requirements for submitting applications to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and were encouraged to actively participate in the selection process.
The event was successful, drawing an impressive attendance of 113 participants representing a diverse cross-section of agricultural stakeholders. These included members from various farmers’ and fisherfolk associations, farmer cooperatives, Sustainable Livelihood Program-based associations, agrarian reform beneficiaries, irrigators’ associations, Indigenous Peoples (IP), and Muslim farmers’ associations. This broad participation underscored the inclusive approach of the municipal government in addressing agricultural concerns across different sectors and communities.
As rural communities continue to face unique challenges and opportunities in the agricultural sector, the role of these organizations becomes increasingly essential in ensuring community well-being. Through these collaborative efforts, Maitum continues to set an example of how local government units can effectively engage with rural communities and organizations to create a more sustainable agricultural sector that benefits all stakeholders involved.
