n a significant milestone for the agricultural community, Madadamian, Echague, Isabela, proudly celebrated the graduation of 81 farmers from the Farm Business School (FBS) program of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) on June 14, 2024.

The event marked a pivotal step forward in enhancing the knowledge and business skills of local farmers, equipping them to thrive in the competitive agricultural market.

The graduation, held at Madadamian’s Amphitheater, was attended by Cagayan Valley Regional Director (RD) Primo C. Lara; Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Jess Beth G. Quidasol; OIC- Municipal Agriculturist Officer Anthony Jordan M. Justo; Purchasing Officer of Dizon’s Farms Joseph A. Viernesto, Jr.; Sagguniang Bayan Marlon Lim; Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer (MARPO) Gladys M. Molina; OIC MARPO Kimberly Jane Tomas; local officials; and representatives of DAR.

From February 21 to May 15, 2024, the farmers attended 25 sessions that taught essential skills such as farm management, financial literacy, marketing strategies, and sustainable farming practices headed by the Development Facilitators Irene Bernas, Michael Mangoba, Eric Sarmiento, and Sonny Boy Galacinao. RD Lara praised the graduates for their hard work and dedication, highlighting how the new skills will boost both their farms and the local economy. PARPO II Quidasol emphasized that the graduation is not just the end of a program, but the start of a new journey for the farmers, who are now better equipped to innovate and succeed in their farming ventures. Additionally, Purchasing Officer Viernesto, Jr. encouraged the graduates to broaden their horizons beyond one or more products and to think creatively about developing better products. His advice aimed to boost their confidence and inspire them to benefit not only their own farms, but also the community.

The graduates, ranging in age and experience, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to enhance their skills. Mario Cardenas described the training as transformative, helping them manage their finances and market produce in a better way, which he sees as a game-changer for their livelihood.

The success of the FBS program in Madadamian served as a model for other farming communities. The local government has pledged continued support to ensure the graduates have the resources they need to thrive.

With the knowledge gained from the FBS program, the 81 graduates are now equipped to increase productivity and explore new business opportunities.