The Department of Agriculture (DA) 13 (Caraga) has recognized top individuals and groups from the farmers and fishermen sectors considered as top partners and implementers of the agency’s Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program projects and services.

In a statement Wednesday, the DA-13 said the awarding was part of the culmination activity of the SAAD Saga regional recognition of partners and stakeholders held in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur on Tuesday.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 13 also took part in the awarding ceremony.

“The groups and individuals who emerged as winners during the activity were evaluated based on their project management, accomplishments, and short-term results, innovativeness, and sustainability efforts,” the DA-13 said.

Three farmers’ associations were adjudged top implementers and partners of the agency this year – the Cancavan Corn Growers Association in Carmen, Surigao del Sur in first place; the Culiram SAAD Abaca Farmers’ Association from Talacogon, Agusan del Sur in second place; and the Balete Chicken Growers Association from Bayabas, Surigao del Sur in third place.

Marjhun Samson from Esperanza, Agusan del Sur was named top fisherman implementer during the activity, followed by the Doña Flavia Farmers and Fisherfolk’s Association in San Luis, Agusan del Sur in second place; and the Soong Fisherfolk Association II from Tago, Surigao del Sur in third place.

The winners received PHP250,000, PHP150,000, and PHP120,000 worth of interventions from the DA-13. (PNA)