The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, through the initiative of the Office of the City Agriculturist (AGR), trained 45 farmers and fisherfolk on cassava production and processing its root crop into various products, held at the City Food Terminal, Barangay Biday on August.

Trainees gained knowledge through hands-on learning and practical demonstrations on land preparation, pest control, and post-harvest techniques.

It is also paired with a livelihood start-up kit, that equipped participants with essential skills in sustainable farming, value-added cassava products such as chips, cake and rolls, and basic entrepreneurship.

The kit includes cassava stem cuttings and packaging materials, which enable immediate application and income generation.

This training was facilitated by Ms. Arlyn D. Valdez, Project Coordinator, and through the expertise and guidance of Ms. Mayeth G. Navasca, Assistant Professor IV at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – North La Union Campus, and Ms. Josefina N. Sacnit, Agriculturist II.

By the end of training, smallholder farmers and rural entrepreneurs were equipped with practical knowledge and hands-on skills in cassava cultivation, post-harvest handling, and value-added processing, while providing essential tools and materials to immediately launch income-generating activities.

Moreover, it addresses food security, boosts household income, and stimulates local economic development by promoting cassava as a sustainable and marketable crop, fostering self-reliance and resilience within communities.

Kakabsat, this holistic approach not only boosts food security and productivity but also empowers #PeoplesCity to build resilient, cassava-based businesses here at #SanFernandoTayo.