San Mariano AR Coop starts operation of Project INSPIRE

In the heart of Lal-lo, Cagayan, the San Mariano Agrarian Reform Cooperative (SMARC) stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation in the agricultural sector. Established on May 10, 2021, SMARC has been unwavering in its commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of its members through sustainable farming practices. 

​The San Mariano Agrarian Reform Cooperative (SMARC) is recognized as an Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organization (ARBO). This designation indicates that SMARC comprises agrarian reform beneficiaries who collaborate to enhance their agricultural productivity and livelihoods. The cooperative has been a recipient of various support initiatives from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), among others. A significant milestone in their journey is the recent inauguration of a ₱5.5 million swine facility, a project realized in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA) under the Integrated National SwineProduction Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) program.

A Timely Intervention Amidst Challenges. The swine industry in the region faced a severe setback due to the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak, which led to substantial economic losses among local farmers. In response, the DA launched the INSPIRE program to rejuvenate the swine industry by providing essential infrastructure and support to affected communities. SMARC emerged as a key beneficiary of this initiative, receiving a state-of-the-art swine facility designed to bolster their livestock operations and promote long-term agricultural sustainability.

State-of-the-Art Facilities for Sustainable Growth. The newly inaugurated facility is equipped with advanced features aimed at enhancing productivity and ensuring biosecurity. It includes a modern piggery with a ventilation system, a biogas facility for waste management, a caretaker shower room to maintain hygiene standards, and a perimeter fence for security. These features not only aim to increase production capacity but also ensure that operations adhere to environmental and health standards, setting a benchmark for sustainable livestock farming in the region.

Community and Leadership Endorsement. The project's significance was underscored during the turnover ceremony, where National Livestock Program Deputy Director Nover Lee Calub emphasized that the initiative transcends infrastructure development. He highlighted its role in shaping the future of families and the broader community, stating, "This is not just about a facility; it's about the future of your families and the future of your community." Local leaders echoed this sentiment. Vice Mayor Maria Olivia Pascual expressed gratitude for the timely support, acknowledging its potential to mitigate the adverse effects of the ASF crisis in the region. Ricky Cabañero, chairperson of SMARC, credited the project's success to collective effort, emphasizing that it represents a shared vision for a sustainable agricultural future.

A Vision for the Future. With the support of the INSPIRE program, SMARC is poised to make a significant impact on local agricultural practices and contribute to national food security efforts. The cooperative's proactive approach serves as an inspiring model for other agrarian communities, demonstrating that through collaboration, innovation, and resilience, it is possible to overcome challenges and pave the way for a prosperous and sustainable future in agriculture. Photos: Ricky Cabanero