DA Pushes for Climate Smart Technologies

Quezon City — The Department of Agriculture is incorporating climate change policies in its programs, plans and budget to meet the demands of the forthcoming weather changes.

“In response to the directive of his Excellency, President Benigno S. Aquino, and in line with the Climate Change Act, DA has put in place adaptation strategies to cushion the impact of extreme weather conditions,” Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said in a statement.

Alcala added that the government thru DA, will be setting up 153 automatic weather stations in agricultural production areas to give weather advisories to food producers.

“These stations will serve as source of information so they will know when and how to plant on a particular season,” Alcala said.

Alcala added that the government has been working non-stop to develop climate-resistant food varieties. Aside from super rice, research centers under DA have been developing drought-, flood-, and salinity-resistant rice varieties.

During the 44th Gawad Saka awarding ceremony held at the Philippine International Convention Center on December 18, 2014, Alcala urged all the agri champions to continue to look for effective farm systems that are climate smart.

The Secretary thanked all the 22 winners of various individual and group categories who partnered with the government in adapting new technologies.

“Your efforts have contributed to the sustainable growth of the agri-fishery sectors, which incurred .33% increment in the first nine months of the year,” he said.

During the event, Alcala made special mention of the triumphs of farmer Gerardo “Gerry” Esteban who integrates rice with other farm produce using modern farm technologies. (DA)