• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The implementation of a Smart Agriculture Project, an initiative aimed at introducing advanced farming technologies to increase agricultural production, improve farmers’ incomes, and promote a more sustainable agricultural system, is being eyed for implementation in Negros Island Region.
Representatives of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) recently met with officials of the Department of Agriculture – Negros Island Region (DA-NIR), led by Regional Executive Director Engr. Jose Albert Barrogo in Bacolod City, and discussed the project, which is a significant step toward modernizing and improving agricultural productivity across the region.
In a statement, DA-NIR said the project marks KOICA’s first collaboration with the Negros Island Region, providing local farmers with an opportunity to benefit from innovative agricultural practices that have long been adopted in countries with highly developed farming technologies.
Under the project, five greenhouses will be established on a one-hectare property owned by the City Government of Bago in Barangay Napoles. The facility is expected to support the production of high-value crops such as cherry tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, bell peppers, and honeydew melons, which have strong market demand and the potential to generate higher incomes for farmers.
Beyond infrastructure development, KOICA will also provide a one-year subsidy covering essential production requirements, including seeds, fertilizers, and other modern technologies needed to ensure the successful operation of the greenhouses.
Project proponents emphasized that the initiative goes beyond the construction of facilities, as it also seeks to provide beneficiaries with the necessary support and training to effectively adopt and sustain modern farming systems.
Following the meeting, KOICA and DA-NIR representatives conducted a site inspection of the proposed project area in Bago City to assess its suitability and readiness for implementation.
Barrogo thanked KOICA for bringing the opportunity to the region, noting that the project could play a key role in strengthening the agricultural sector in NIR.
He said initiatives such as the Smart Agriculture Project help equip farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to keep pace with agricultural modernization and adapt to the challenges of changing climate conditions and market demands.*
