Kitcharao LGU Farm Drives Growth, Boosts Farmers’ Incomes
KITCHARAO, Agusan del Norte — A local government-led farm initiative in Kitcharao is transforming the town’s agricultural sector by increasing vegetable production, improving market access, and raising incomes for hundreds of farmers.
Launched in 2001, the LGU Farm started as a small training site and tourist attraction. Over time, it has evolved into a comprehensive production and marketing hub that now plays a central role in supporting the town’s farming community.
“The LGU Farm was established to address the pressing needs of our residents, especially farmers, including limited income, lack of jobs, and access to livelihood opportunities,” said Vice Mayor Aristotle Montante, who initiated the project during his term as mayor.
Today, the initiative continues under the leadership of Mayor Jenry Montante, in collaboration with the Municipal Agriculture Office, further expanding its reach and impact.
The LGU Farm now features a wide range of facilities, including a training center, hydroponics greenhouse, livestock housing, fishpond, mini market, slaughterhouse, and storage facilities—serving as both a learning site and a production base.
A major boost came in 2023 when the provincial government allocated PHP10 million for the Kitcharao Livelihood and Employment Project (KLEP), aimed at strengthening farmers’ livelihoods. The program provided seeds, fertilizers, tools, and training to its first batch of 116 vegetable farmers.
As part of the initiative, beneficiaries participate in a twice-weekly “Tabo” market held at the LGU Farm, where they can directly sell their produce to buyers from Kitcharao and nearby towns. This setup ensures better pricing and eliminates middlemen.
To further support farmers, the LGU facilitates the transport of goods from barangays to the market, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Delivery trucks acquired through the Department of Agriculture’s Kadiwa ng Pangulo program also help bring produce to larger market centers.
From 2024 to 2025, the program’s initial beneficiaries produced over 126,000 kilograms of vegetables, generating nearly PHP4.73 million in sales—highlighting its impact on local livelihoods.
Farmers like Teresita Borinaga have seen steady income growth, earning between PHP3,000 and PHP5,000 weekly from vegetable sales. Others, like Eladio Montefalcon, have secured wholesale buyers, earning as much as PHP57,000 per market cycle.
Beyond crop production, the LGU has expanded into livestock support, distributing cattle and goats to over 100 farmers across multiple barangays in 2025.
With more beneficiaries set to join the program, local officials remain optimistic that the LGU Farm and KLEP will continue to strengthen agricultural productivity, generate income opportunities, and uplift farming communities in Kitcharao.
NPO News Team - Philippine News Agency - PR
