03/09/2026
Today, September 3, 2026, the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MIPA), through its Ancestral Domain Division, successfully conducted a Cooperatives Training on Modern and Sustainable Methods in Corn and Peanut Production and Processing at the School of Living Tradition Building in Upi, Maguindanao del Norte.
The said activity was attended by two (2) Indigenous Peoples agricultural cooperatives: Tëduray Fagumfungon T’mikor (TFT) of Brgy. Tomicor, Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, and Fënuwo Tëduray Sërëtar Farmer’s Agriculture Cooperative of Brgy. Darugao, Upi, Maguindanao del Norte.
The training served as a capacity-building initiative designed to enhance the knowledge, skills, and practical competencies of IP cooperative members in modern, climate-smart, and sustainable approaches to corn and peanut production and processing. It aims to equip participants with appropriate agricultural technologies and practices that can help improve farm productivity, strengthen food security, reduce post-harvest losses, increase the value of agricultural products, and generate better livelihood and market opportunities for their communities.
The activity was graced by Dr. Michael M. Garrigues, Bureau Director of Ancestral Domain, who emphasized that the BIPA recognizes not only the cultural and political dimensions of Indigenous Peoples’ rights but also their social and economic development. He highlighted the important role of cooperatives in promoting sustainable development and the responsible management of Fusaka Inged.
Dr. Garrigues further underscored that the adoption of modern agricultural technologies does not mean replacing traditional Indigenous farming practices. Rather, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSP) can be integrated with appropriate modern technologies to enhance productivity, strengthen climate resilience, promote sustainable livelihoods, and build stronger and more self-reliant IP cooperatives.
These insights were further reinforced by Dr. Algan Benito Jr., Chief of the Ancestral Domain Division, Mr. Philip F. Manguramas, PTRP, Section Head of AD Section, and Ms. Ruby Mae M. Laconde, Community Development Officer III.
Representing Hon. Guiamal B. Abdulrahman, MIPA Minister, Deputy Minister Timuay Rene Batitao encouraged the participating cooperatives to maximize the opportunities and support provided by the BARMM Government. He emphasized the importance of sustaining their efforts and applying the knowledge gained from the training to generate meaningful benefits for their families and communities.
Meanwhile, Ms. Bernadette A. Francis, Upi Municipal Agriculturist, served as a resource person and provided technical inputs on corn and peanut production. She opened the session with the activity “My Ideal Farm,” which encouraged participants to visualize and reflect on their current and desired farming practices. She also discussed soil texture and demonstrated the feel method for identifying soil texture through direct observation and examination.
Overall, the training highlighted the value of combining Indigenous Knowledge, appropriate modern agricultural technologies, and cooperative development in strengthening agricultural productivity, climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and the long-term economic well-being of Indigenous communities.
