PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (MindaNews / 25 July)—Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. has focused his vision on nurturing the aspirations of young farmers, who he believes are poised to drive the growth and modernization of agriculture in the province.
The governor made this emphasis in his fifth state-of-the-province address (SOPA) delivered last week.
“To keep up with the demands of the times, we need to tailor-fit our agricultural system to the latest technologies and innovations,” Cane said, adding that the younger generations have the potential to realize the dream of making Agusan del Sur as one of the progressive agricultural provinces in the country.
“I encourage our youth to take up agricultural courses. This is not only an opportunity for your future but also for the development of the agricultural sector in our province through science, technology, and innovation,” the governor said.
He said that while Agusan del Sur has significant potential in agriculture, relying solely on traditional farming methods is insufficient. Modernizing local agricultural practices, he added, is essential to fully harness this potential.
Cane highlighted that the provincial government, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, has recognized 10 young Agsurnon farmers for their remarkable contributions to the province’s farming industry.
Among them are three young farmers in their 20s who were featured in a video as part of the governor’s speech. They have advanced to the regional and national stages of the Young Farmers Awards organized by the Department of Agriculture.
These distinguished young farmers are Joshua Alaba, 28, from Barangay Magkiangkang in Bayugan City, owner of Alaba Tilapia Farm; Japhet Tabale, from the same barangay, owner of Cacao Prince products, producing 100% pure cacao tableya, 100% pure cacao dark chocolates, and 100% pure cacao nibs; and April Gay Aligway, 27, from Barangay Bayugan 2 in the municipality of San Francisco, owner of April Fresh Oyster Mushroom Products.
“The dedication and innovative practices of our young farmers are indeed crucial to advancing and improving our agricultural productivity. The recognition bestowed on them underscores our commitment to fostering a vibrant and resilient young agricultural sector,” said the governor.
Cane has passionately advocated for modern farming technology, emphasizing technological innovation and soil-based agriculture. This commitment led to the establishment of a state-of-the-art Soils Laboratory at the provincial capitol complex and the Sustainable Provincial Agro-Industry Resource Center (SPARC) in the highway village of Mabuhay in Bayugan City.
“This SPARC facility will serve as an innovation hub, benefiting farmers, micro, small, and medium enterprises, consumers, tourists, and local industries,” he said.
Additionally, the provincial government has introduced a scholarship program for a master’s degree in soil science and crop protection, implemented through Sangguniang Panlalawigan Ordinance No. 730. There are currently five scholarship grantees expected to complete their studies in 2026, and the provincial government continues to accept applications for these grants each year. (Chris V. Panganiban / MindaNews)
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