The Mababbalin Farmers Association, Inc. celebrated on May 22, 2024, their inaugural honey harvest, showcasing their dedication and hard work at Bila, Bunot, Paracelis, Mountain Province.
They attribute their success to the assistance Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-National Apiculture Research Training and Development Institute (DMMMSU-NARTDI) extended. It can be recalled that NARTDI conducted basic beekeeping training for members of Mababbalin Farmers Association, Inc. on July 25-27, 2023.
Immediately after the training, the association initiated their beekeeping operations with two honeybee colonies. Their interest and commitment to this new venture quickly bore fruit as they expanded their colonies from two to four within a short period.
According to the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Paracelis, Mababbalin Farmers Association is the first farmers’ association in the municipality to venture into bee farming. This pioneering effort not only set a precedent for other farmers in the area but also highlighted the innovative spirit of the association. Moreover, beekeeping contributes to the local ecosystem by promoting pollination and biodiversity.
Dr. Joseph A. Panas, Executive Director of NARTDI, represented by Ms. Precious Angela P. Alcatara, congratulated the association. “I commend Ms. Grace Bongorngor, President of the Mababbalin Farmers Association, Inc., for her vision and dedication to providing a sustainable livelihood for the members through beekeeping. Their success demonstrates the remarkable outcomes that can be achieved through education, support, and community commitment. I am also grateful for the unwavering support of LGU Paracelis in promoting the livelihood of their farmers.”
The Local Government Unit of Paracelis also expressed its support and pride in the association’s accomplishments, noting that such initiatives are crucial for local development and sustainability. Mayor Ayangwa pledged technical and financial support for the association’s beekeeping project development and expansion.
(By Arvin C. Tuyan)
