Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday announced the creation of the Agricultural Cooperative Enterprise Development Services, essentially a support system designed to strengthen food security and improve farm productivity.
Under Memorandum Circular 22, the newly established ACED Services will operate within both the central and regional field offices of the Department of Agriculture. These services will be overseen by the Office of the Undersecretary for Operations, now led by Undersecretary Roger Navarro.
Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized the ACED Services are central to the strategy empowering farmers and fisherfolk.
“President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has highlighted the crucial role that transforming and consolidating farmers’ cooperatives and associations plays in improving the livelihoods of our agricultural community. These efforts are key to advancing agricultural development and ensuring food security,” he said.
The ACED Services will be instrumental in helping formulate policies and plans that support agricultural cooperatives. They will also coordinate efforts and oversee the implementation of projects designed to address developmental gaps and adjust strategies as needed.
ACED Services will also help provide comprehensive training programs for cooperatives and associations, including collaborations with other government agencies, private institutions, and civil society organizations. This training will focus on enhancing skills and knowledge crucial for cooperative success.
The new offices will also spearhead the digital transformation of agricultural cooperatives, promoting the use of data analytics, online marketplaces, and climate adaptation tools. This initiative is aimed at boosting productivity, sustainability, and resilience within the sector.
Tiu Laurel said the ACED Services are designed to streamline efforts and maximize the effectiveness of resources allocated for cooperative support. The services will use feedback mechanisms to continually improve and adjust strategies based on stakeholder input, he added.
“The establishment of ACED Services underscores our commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and fishermen. By fostering increased income, adopting modern farming technologies, and enhancing food security and agricultural exports, we are taking significant steps toward a more productive and sustainable agricultural sector,” he said.
