Paril, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat – The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Regional Field Office 12 conducted its midyear assessment of the second phase of implementation of the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program. The assessment, held on June 1-2, 2023, in Paril, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, aimed to evaluate the progress of program implementation in the provinces of Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani.

The SAAD Program, initiated by the DA, aims to uplift identified communities out of poverty through targeted agricultural and fisheries interventions. Regional Director Usop D. Pendaliday, Jr., who also serves as the Focal Person for the program, stressed the importance of collaboration and prompt execution of projects in order to accomplish the program’s objectives. Furthermore, he urged all those involved in implementation to identify the needs of the communities and carry out comprehensive validations to ensure the effectiveness of their efforts.

The two-day activity included a review of the physical and financial status of SAAD projects. SAAD Regional key officials, Provincial Fishery Officers, and other participants raised their concerns and issues related to the program which were addressed through constructive discussions and the exploration of viable solutions.

The midyear assessment represents a crucial milestone in the achievement of the SAAD Program’s objectives to improve the livelihood of communities in need.