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BANGUED, Abra – Two brand-new types of solar power systems, each worth PhP99,950, have been successfully delivered in the Amtuagan and Dilong Barangays in Tubo Ancestral Domain (AD). These systems are meant to support the functioning of two farmer cooperative associations (FCAs) that are involved in the chicken egg business.
The Amtuagan Rural Improvement Club (RIC) and the Dilong Rice Producers Association were identified as organizations under the consortium of Tipon iti Umili para ti Panagsalwad ti Naparswaan (TIPON) that worked hand-in-hand with the Department of Agriculture Cordillera (DA-CAR) Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K) Program to implement these crucial livelihood interventions.
Addressing Energy Challenges in Rural Areas
In areas like Tubo AD, a rural area a dependent environmentally friendly grid electricity is hard to come by. Thus, the FCAs can install solar power systems that can guarantee a constant power supply for their chicken egg business. This uninterrupted power is very important in ensuring right climate such as temperature and lighting in poultry structures, which affects production rates and quality of the products. Being financially and socially sustainable, solar energy hails clean and renewable energy sources which makes it the best package for small enterprises located in remote regions.
Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods
Besides contributing to revenue generation and the provision of enhanced electricity supply for these FCAs’ needs, the solar power system installation also goes hand in hand with strategic objectives of sustainable livelihood. Harnessing of the solar energy offsets reliance on fossil energy sources as well as cuts on expenses making it ideal for the small-scale and community level companies.
Farmer Business School (FBS) Orientation
In addition to the solar power installations, an orientation on the Farmer Business School (FBS) was conducted in Barangay Tubtuba, Tubo AD. This orientation targeted members of the TUBPAN Sugarcane Production and Processing Association, another FCA under TIPON. The FBS program is designed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in various aspects of the sugarcane business, including production techniques and processing of sugarcane products such as “balikutsa.”
During the orientation, the significance of the FBS program was highlighted, including its procedural details, prerequisites, and duration. Participants were guided through the completion of inventory forms to establish baseline data on sugarcane production within the association. Key logistical aspects such as session schedules, venue selection, and adherence to house rules were also discussed and agreed upon.
Engaging the Community
A total of 23 participants expressed their willingness to undertake the FBS program, which is a season-long activity covering a comprehensive curriculum aimed at enhancing participants’ knowledge and skills in sugarcane production and related business aspects. The FBS program is expected to empower participants by providing them with practical and theoretical knowledge, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and profitability of their enterprises.
Conclusion
The integration of solar power systems and the implementation of the FBS program in the Tubo Ancestral Domain represent significant steps toward sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. These initiatives, supported by the DA-CAR 4K Program and TIPON, not only address immediate operational challenges but also build a foundation for long-term community empowerment and economic development.
By leveraging renewable energy solutions and comprehensive educational programs, rural communities in Abra are taking meaningful strides toward achieving sustainable livelihoods and improving their quality of life.