The Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) is a government program that aims to identify and register small farmers, fisherfolk, and farmworkers in the country. The program was launched in 2011 and is jointly implemented by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

The RSBSA program is crucial in ensuring that government programs and services are targeted to the right beneficiaries. By identifying and registering the basic sectors in agriculture, the government can design and implement programs that are tailored to their needs, resulting in more efficient and effective service delivery.

One such farmer who has benefited from the RSBSA program is Rosa, a vegetable farmer from Laguna. Before being registered under the program, Rosa was not aware of the government programs and services available to her. However, after being registered, she was able to access government programs such as credit assistance and crop insurance, which helped her improve her crop yield and income.

Aside from accessing government programs and services, being registered under the RSBSA program also gives farmers a sense of empowerment and recognition. For many small farmers and fisherfolk, being registered under the program means being recognized by the government as a vital contributor to the country’s agricultural sector.

The RSBSA program is also crucial in providing accurate data on the number and location of small farmers, fisherfolk, and farmworkers in the country. This information is used by the government to develop policies and programs that are responsive to the needs of the basic sectors in agriculture.

However, the RSBSA program still faces challenges in reaching out to all small farmers, fisherfolk, and farmworkers in the country, particularly those in remote and hard-to-reach areas. The program also needs more resources to sustain its operations and expand its coverage.

Despite these challenges, the RSBSA program remains a vital program in ensuring that small farmers, fisherfolk, and farmworkers are recognized and supported by the government. With the government’s continued support and resources, the program can continue to expand its coverage and reach more beneficiaries, resulting in a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector.

Find yours here, https://finder-rsbsa.da.gov.ph/ !

#proudtobeafarmer #benguetfarmer

Benguet province in the Philippines is known for its stunning mountain scenery, cool climate, and fertile soil. It is also home to many small-scale farmers who work tirelessly to grow crops such as strawberries, cabbage, lettuce, and potatoes. In this blog post, we will get to know the Benguet farmers and learn more about their way of life.

Most of the farmers in Benguet are members of indigenous communities, such as the Kankanaey, Ibaloi, and Kalanguya. They have a strong connection to the land and practice traditional farming methods that have been passed down through generations.

Farming in Benguet is challenging due to the province’s rugged terrain and unpredictable weather patterns. However, the farmers have adapted to these conditions and have developed techniques that enable them to grow crops successfully.

One of the unique features of farming in Benguet is the terracing of the land. This technique involves carving out steps into the mountainside, which helps to prevent soil erosion and improves water retention. The terraces also provide a flat surface for planting crops and create a striking landscape that is both beautiful and functional.

Another aspect of farming in Benguet is the use of organic and sustainable practices. Most of the farmers here do not use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, opting instead for natural methods such as composting and intercropping. This not only helps to maintain the health of the soil but also produces healthier and more flavorful crops.

Despite the challenges, the farmers in Benguet are proud of their way of life and are committed to preserving their traditions and culture. They are also passionate about sharing their knowledge and products with others, and many of them participate in local markets and community events.

Visitors to Benguet can get to know the farmers and experience their way of life by participating in farm tours and homestays. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to learn about the local culture, taste traditional dishes, and see firsthand the hard work and dedication that goes into farming in this beautiful province.

The farmers in Benguet are an essential part of the region’s culture and economy. They have a deep connection to the land and practice traditional farming methods that have sustained their communities for generations. By supporting local farmers and learning about their way of life, we can gain a greater appreciation for the food we eat and the people who grow it.

Potatoes are a staple crop in Benguet, a mountainous province located in the Cordillera Administrative Region of the Philippines. The province is known for its cool climate and fertile soil, which are ideal for growing a wide range of crops, including potatoes. In this blog post, we will explore the traditional way of harvesting potatoes in Benguet.

Potatoes are typically planted in Benguet from October to December, and the harvest season begins around four months later, in February or March. In traditional potato farming, harvesting is done by hand using simple tools such as a spade, a fork, and a bolo (a traditional Filipino machete).

The process of harvesting potatoes in Benguet begins with the removal of the plants’ foliage using a bolo. This is done to allow the potatoes to mature and harden in the soil, making them more resistant to damage during harvesting.

After the foliage is removed, the potatoes are dug up from the soil using a spade or a fork. Care must be taken during this process to avoid damaging the potatoes, which can affect their quality and storage life.

Once the potatoes are dug up, they are sorted and cleaned to remove any damaged or diseased potatoes. This is done by hand, with each potato carefully examined and sorted according to size and quality.

Traditional potato farming in Benguet involves a labor-intensive process of harvesting by hand using simple tools such as a spade, a fork, and a bolo. While this process may be time-consuming, it allows for greater control over the quality of the potatoes and ensures that they are free from damage and disease. By following these traditional methods, farmers in Benguet can produce high-quality potatoes that are enjoyed by people around the world.

Coffee is a beloved beverage that is consumed by millions of people worldwide. The process of producing coffee, from planting the seedlings to brewing a cup, is a complex and nuanced one that requires expertise and careful attention to detail. We will explore the process of planting Catimore Arabica and International coffee seedlings in partnership with Farm to Cup that specializes in sourcing high-quality coffee beans.

Catimore Arabica is a hybrid coffee variety that is a cross between Catuai and Timor coffee varieties. This hybrid is known for its high yield and excellent quality, making it a popular choice among coffee farmers. Additionally, Catimore Arabica is resistant to coffee leaf rust and other coffee diseases, making it a hardy and reliable variety for coffee farming.

International coffee varieties, on the other hand, are known for their unique and distinct flavors. These varieties are typically grown in specific regions worldwide and are prized for their complex taste profiles. Planting these varieties can be a great way to diversify your coffee farm and cater to a more niche market.

It is crucial to maintain the coffee plants by providing them with adequate water, fertilizers, and pest control. Regular pruning and weeding are also necessary to ensure that the plants grow healthy and strong.