Farm extension services need 20,000 more agriculturists — DA

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) said it needs around 20,000 more agriculturists to adequately staff its extension system and improve support for farmers.

- By Vonn Andrei E. Villamiel

The DA released its assessment after the Professional Regulation Commission announced the results of the November Agriculturists Licensure Examination, which 6,678 passed out of an examinee pool of 9,742.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. said the ideal ratio is one agriculturist for every 25 to 50 hectares of farmland.

Mr. Laurel said the DA is working with the Commission on Higher Education to align agriculture-related curricula with industry demand and ensure sufficient graduate output.

He added that agriculture programs in state universities and colleges should be reinstated, along with veterinary courses to support the newly signed Animal Industry Act.

"Once we have extension workers on the ground, our information will be real-time and more accurate, with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) mainly validating collected data," Mr. Laurel said.

He said a more robust extension workforce would improve feedback on field conditions, including delays in the distribution of seed and fertilizer and the monitoring of palay (unmilled rice) prices.

Mr. Laurel added that proper compensation and strong support from the administration could draw more licensed professionals to government service.

"Field work is very attractive, especially if you're paid well and properly, helping our farmers and fisherfolk," he said.