To streamline and standardize agricultural data, as well as market prices, the Department of Agriculture Central Visayas (DA7) through the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), conducted a two-day Capacity Building for Technical Staff Handling Price and Supply.
The workshop, held on May 21-22, 2025, at a venue in Cebu City, aimed to unify the diverse databases across DA programs, banners, and offices.
DA7 AMAD Chief Aurea Madrio emphasized the need for unified databases for easy access and utilization of the different banner programs and offices of the region.
This initiative is expected to enhance efficiency and collaboration within the agency.
Regional Technical Director for Operations Engr. Cirilo N. Namoc acknowledged the long-standing challenges about data inconsistencies, hoping that this effort will pave it’s way for the young DA personnel to access crucial data with less efforts. He also highlighted the vital role of convergence and collaboration in achieving the goals of the agency, which are increase production and income of farmers.
AMAD-AISS Chief Anna Delza Barimbao provided the rationale for the activity, delving into the legal bases related to market information, specifically citing the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (AFMA), or Republic Act 8435.
John Rick Delgado, also from AMAD, presented the current data and information gathering strategies, discussing both successes and challenges encountered. He also facilitated an open forum and guided participants in formulating cost structures based on DA7’s priority commodities.
PMED Chief Elvin Milleza gave a brief technical discussion on data sampling and validation techniques. He strongly encouraged the AMAD to organize a dedicated workshop focusing on various data gathering techniques, suggesting this could be a crucial step towards achieving comprehensive data unification within the Department of Agriculture
During the open forum, DA7’s Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer for Cebu (APCO Cebu) Marina Viniegas shared an optimistic perspective, noting that while complete data digitalization might seem distant, consistent collaboration and convergence among offices, coupled with continuous engagement with partner agencies, can make it achievable.
Representatives from various DA7 programs and banners shared their respective data collection methodologies and acknowledged the crucial role of the Local Government Units (LGUs) in gathering on-the-ground information. They also openly received suggestions and offered valuable insights regarding field data collection processes.