The Department of Agriculture and the Department of Agrarian Reform led several government agencies and civil society groups in the recent launch of the United Nations International Year of Family Farming (IYFF) at the DA’s Bureau of Soils and Water Management Convention Hall in Quezon City.
Adopting the theme “Ang family farming ay buhay,” the program seeks to highlight the role of family farming in providing food security and nutrition, improving livelihood, managing natural resources, protecting the environment, and achieving sustainable development in rural areas.
Under the program, the work of small holder farming and fishing families, indigenous farming families and cooperatives in helping the government fight poverty and hunger is recognized.
The program aims to place family farming at the center of agricultural, environmental and social policies in the national agenda and increase awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by smallholders and help identify ways to support family farmers.
In connection with the program, a search for Outstanding Farm Family has been held annually, in cooperation with Gawad Saka. For this year, the winner will be awarded a Presidential trophy and cash prize of P200,000.
In a related event, World Food Day will be celebrated on October 16 with the slogan “Feeding the world, caring for the earth.”
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