Whole of government approach in providing agri-based livelihood activities discussed by DoST, DTI, DA
By Dhel Nazario
Department of Science and Technology (DoST) Secretary Fortunato dela Pena, Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar, and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez recently held a virtual meeting to discuss a whole of government approach in providing agri-based livelihood activities and business opportunities to those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Pagtutulung-tulungan namin na matulungan sila na magsimula ng livelihood na base sa agrikultura (We will work together so that we can help them start a agricultural-based livelihood)," Dela Pena said during his weekly report last Friday.
DoST said that this plan will also include returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who lost their jobs amid the COVID-19 crisis.
The Science and Technology Secretary said that the agency is pushing for the adoption of various technologies developed by research and academic institutions which have benefited farmers such as the improvement of the growth of native pigs, chickens, and ducks.
"Some have turned them into successful agri-based business ventures that can serve as models to future technology adoptors," Dela Pena said.
DoST, together with DTI and DA, announced last week that they will assist micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) adopt digitalization and electronic technology in their businesses.
These initiatives are part of President Duterte's directive in his State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA). He also included the use of TV frequencies for distance learning.
The three secretaries agreed to have a unified program on training, technology transfer, and online marketing to help firms and individuals who are currently engaged and will engage in food and agricultural production and livelihood.