Product Offerings
Products:
Services: Market Development & Trade Facilitation, KADIWA Program Facilitation, Market Matching, Food Pass Issuance, Farmers’ Enterprise Development, Agri-Credit Programs
The Department of Agriculture – Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division Region V (AMAD RFO 5), located in Pili, Camarines Sur, serves as the regional execution arm of the national AMAD network in the Bicol Region. Tasked with driving market-oriented agricultural growth, AMAD RFO 5 provides critical services that enhance market access, foster enterprise development, and support inclusive agricultural trade.
Core Functions and Services
AMAD RFO 5 focuses on transforming local agricultural enterprises into sustainable market players through:
- Market Development and Trade Facilitation: Coordination of B2B events, agri-trade fairs, and buyer-producer linkages to increase market opportunities for Bicolano farmers and cooperatives.
- KADIWA Program Implementation: Rolling out the “KADIWA ni Ani at Kita” initiative, which links producers directly to consumers, LGUs, and institutional buyers.
- Farmers’ Enterprise Development: Mentorship, packaging support, and market-readiness training for micro and small agri-based enterprises.
- Food Pass Issuance and Logistics Support: Ensuring smooth movement of agricultural products across provinces through streamlined accreditation and pass systems.
- Agri-Credit Access: Facilitating access to loans and grant programs offered under DA’s partnerships with ACPC, Landbank, and other financing bodies.
These services are delivered through a provincial network under the guidance of regional directorates and technical staff.
Specialization and Unique Value Proposition
As one of the more typhoon-prone regions in the Philippines, AMAD Region V specializes in resilience-focused agribusiness support. The division tailors services that address:
- Post-disaster agri-enterprise recovery
- Climate-smart and diversified farming linkages
- High-value crop and livestock integration
Their hands-on approach and close coordination with Local Government Units (LGUs) ensure responsive and community-driven service delivery.
Target Stakeholders
AMAD Region V provides services to:
- Farmers, fisherfolk, and agripreneurs across Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, and Sorsogon
- Farmers' cooperatives and associations (FCAs)
- Young agri-entrepreneurs and startups
- Local Government Units and development-oriented NGOs
Programs prioritize marginalized producers and promote gender equity, youth engagement, and IP (indigenous peoples) inclusion.
Capabilities and Operational Reach
AMAD RFO 5 operates from the DA Regional Field Office in Pili, with support from provincial extension officers. Their capabilities include:
- On-site market matching sessions
- Digital inventory tracking for enterprise support
- KADIWA rolling stores and regional hubs
- Field-based training in enterprise packaging, financial management, and branding
They also maintain partnerships with DTI, DOST, and state universities for enterprise incubation and product innovation.
Financial Performance and Impact
While direct revenue is not applicable, AMAD Region V measures impact through service coverage and support outcomes:
- Over ₱120 million worth of agri-products traded through KADIWA platforms in 2023
- More than 400 agribusiness MSMEs and FCAs assisted annually
- 50+ young agri-enterprises funded through the Young Farmers Challenge Program since 2021
- Facilitated access to ₱70 million in agri-credit loans and grants in partnership with financial institutions
They also help producers transition from traditional markets to value-added and institutional buyers.
Certifications and Governance
As a division under the Department of Agriculture, AMAD RFO 5 adheres to all COA audit requirements and DBM operational guidelines. Their programs are aligned with the:
- Philippine Development Plan
- Agribusiness and Marketing Roadmaps
- Gender and Development (GAD) and Youth in Agriculture guidelines
Community Recognition and Feedback
AMAD RFO 5 is regularly featured in local news and agribusiness development briefings for its proactive support. Testimonials from farmers’ cooperatives highlight:
- Enhanced market income by 20% to 35%
- Access to customized packaging and labeling solutions
- Supportive and well-coordinated buyer matching
Major Achievements
- Established multiple KADIWA Rolling Stores across Bicol, including in Albay and Camarines Norte
- Top performing regional office in the 2022 KADIWA implementation audit by DA Central Office
- Partnered with LGUs to conduct the Bicol Agribusiness and Investment Conference, attracting buyers from Metro Manila and Visayas
The Department of Agriculture – AMAD Region V stands as a model for responsive, localized agribusiness facilitation, empowering Bicolano farmers to thrive in an increasingly market-driven agricultural landscape.