DANGCAGAN, Bukidnon – A stronger push for the development of the country’s rubber industry gained momentum as the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office 10 (DARFO 10), through its High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), formalized a
partnership with the Philippine Rubber Research Institute (PRRI) to boost rubber farming productivity in Bukidnon

The collaboration was cemented through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on
May 21 at DA-RFO 10’s Research Center for Upland Development (RCUD) in Dangcagan
town.
The event was highlighted by a ceremonial tree-planting activity and a hands-on demonstration
on proper rubber budwood planting, where participants were guided on correct hole
measurements and recommended planting procedures to ensure healthy crop establishment.
According to DA-RFO 10, the joint undertaking includes the establishment of a rubber nursery
and budwood garden within the RCUD. The initiative aims to sustain and expand rubber
plantation areas across the country through the adoption of improved technologies and the
promotion of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in nursery development, plantation
management, and budwood garden establishment.
Under the agreement, DA-RFO 10 will champion a bottom-up and self-reliant farming systems
approach that promotes equity, productivity, and sustainability while helping increase farm
output and farmers’ incomes. The agency will likewise implement priority programs and projects
designed to equip and empower marginal farmers to venture into rubber production.
For its part, PRRI will provide quality planting materials and technical assistance, monitor
project implementation among beneficiaries, and support the operation and maintenance of the
project. The institute will also assist DA-RFO 10 in identifying and implementing corrective
measures whenever necessary.
PRRI Executive Director Cheryl L. Eusala underscored the significance of the partnership,
emphasizing that it goes beyond a formal agreement.
“This initiative highlights the strong and enduring partnership between our institutions. We
already regard one another as family, united by a common goal of serving our farmers. More
importantly, this reflects our shared responsibility to provide the best planting materials and
opportunities that will help improve their livelihoods,” Eusala said.
The collaboration reflects the strengthened commitment of DA-RFO 10 and PRRI to advance a
more vibrant and sustainable rubber industry. Anchored on PRRI’s vision of “GOMAgaang
Buhay,” the initiative seeks to create a future that is more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous for
Filipino farmers by enhancing the production and distribution of quality rubber planting
materials and improving productivity across the sector. (melbmadera)