A total of 702 farmers and fisherfolk from the towns of Burgos, Adams, Dumalneg, and Carasi in Ilocos Norte may soon improve their socio-economic conditions by becoming more productive and bankable through access to relevant financial services and opportunities.

This was expected by Dr. Aris Reynold V. Cajigal, director for extension, after they have completed the series of training on financial literacy from October 19-30. 

The training program dubbed “Pagsasanay para sa mga Magsasaka at Mangingisda” was initiated by the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) through the Extension Directorate, Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), along with Land Bank Countryside Development Foundation and the local government units of the said towns.

The participants came from nine barangays in Burgos (Bayog, Ablan, Agaga, Buduan, Nagsurot, Paayas, Saoit, Poblacion, and Tanap); five in Adams (Poblacion, Sinadangan, Bucarot, Kadisan, and Maligligay); four in Dumalneg (Cabaritan, Kalaw, Quibel, and San Isidro); and three in Carasi (Barbaqueso, Virbira, and Angset). Specifically, the training was held last October 19-23, 27, 28, and 30, respectively.

Topics on financial literacy and ‘pamamahala sa panganib’ were discussed by selected faculty from the College of Business, Economics and Accountancy (CBEA) and College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD). 

The training was conducted in 68 batches with 15-20 participants each, and health protocols were observed.

“Dakkel a tulong daytoy nga aktibidad para kadakami, aglalo ti panangmanehar iti mapastrek a kuarta ken paggastuan,” (This training is a big help to us, particularly on how to manage my income and expenses.) said one of the participants as he thanked the university and the agencies for reaching them through the program. – by Kimberly S. Miguel, correspondent