The Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental is rolling out strengthened agricultural and fisheries initiatives aimed at improving productivity, expanding livelihood opportunities, and ensuring food security for farmers and fisherfolk across the province.
Among the priority actions being pushed by Governor Henry Oaminal are the expansion of soil and water management programs, the development of irrigation systems, and the proposed establishment of a provincial soil laboratory to provide science-based support to local producers. Efforts are also underway to improve access to funding, including FishCORE matching grants, to help farmers and fisherfolk scale their operations and build sustainable enterprises.
These priority actions were consolidated and refined during the province’s first ASENSO Agricultural Summit 2026, which brought together government agencies and stakeholders to align strategies, surface on-the-ground challenges, and identify practical, solutions-driven interventions.
The provincial government is likewise pushing for greater digitalization in agriculture to streamline program delivery and ensure that support services more efficiently reach communities on the ground. At the same time, initiatives are being aligned with national programs such as coconut planting and broader agricultural modernization efforts.
Oaminal emphasized that these measures are designed to deliver concrete, long-term benefits to farming and fishing communities, positioning the sector as a key driver of inclusive economic growth.
“These are not just plans–we are putting in place systems and support that will directly uplift the lives of our farmers and fisherfolk,” Oaminal underscored.
Complementing these efforts are ongoing programs under the Bureau of Soils and Water Management, including the National Soil Health Program, Composting Facility for Biodegradable Wastes, and Manure Processing Facility, all aimed at enhancing farm productivity while promoting sustainable practices.
The Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office X also reinforced the importance of data-driven governance and encouraged increased youth participation to ensure the long-term viability of the sector.
The summit convened under the theme: “Securing Food, Sustaining Livelihoods: Advancing Agriculture and Fisheries Development,” reflecting the provincial government’s commitment to responsive, forward-looking, and impactful governance.
Guided by the ASENSO Misamis Occidental framework and its 5Ms–Misamisnon, Magpuyong Malinawon, Malambuon, ug Malipayon (Misamisnon, Live Happily, Prosperously, and Peacefully)–the province continues to pursue people-centered programs that translate policy into tangible gains for local communities.
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