The Provincial Government of Cavite, through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, and DTI Cavite recently held the 1st Agriculture and Fishery Provincial Forum at the New Provincial Government Center in Trece Martires City. The event equipped local farmers and fisherfolk with essential skills in entrepreneurship, business registration, and market access, transforming agricultural activities into sustainable business ventures.
A Collaborative Platform for Agricultural Development
The 1st Agriculture and Fishery Provincial Forum, held on June 3, 2026, served as a vital platform for strengthening collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions, and stakeholders in the agriculture and fisheries sectors . DTI Cavite, through Officer-in-Charge Division Chief Julita C. Salvacion, presented various programs, services, and assistance to support farmers, fisherfolk, and aspiring entrepreneurs . These included opportunities in entrepreneurship development, business registration, product development, market access, and capacity-building programs designed to help agricultural and fisheries stakeholders enhance their livelihoods and expand their enterprises .
Governor Francisco Gabriel Remulla and 8th District Board Member Jasmin Maligaya-Bautista addressed attendees, reaffirming the provincial government's commitment to advancing the welfare of the agriculture and fisheries sectors . Both officials stressed the need for stronger partnerships among government agencies, financial institutions, and local communities to sustain sectoral development .
Connecting Stakeholders to Government Services and Funding
The forum brought together representatives from more than a dozen agencies, including the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region IV-A, Bureau of Plant Industry, Department of Agriculture Region IV-A, Department of Labor and Employment-Cavite, Philippine Coconut Authority, and Land Bank of the Philippines . LandBank's participation was particularly significant, as the bank offers programs like AgriSenso, a value chain-based lending program designed to empower small farmers, fishers, and agrarian reform beneficiaries with loans for crop production, fisheries production, and farm equipment acquisition .
Following the presentations, participants held open consultations with agency representatives, allowing them to raise concerns, seek technical guidance, and inquire about available assistance programs . By bridging the gap between farmers, government services, and funding institutions, the forum demonstrated the province's commitment to transforming agricultural and fisheries activities into sustainable and viable business ventures .
