In a significant move toward addressing hunger and poverty in the region, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office XI (DSWD XI), the National Irrigation Administration XI (NIA XI), and the Department of Health—Davao Regional Medical Center (DOH-DRMC) renewed their commitment through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) under the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) program on February 6, 2025, at the NIA XI Compound, Davao City.

The MOA was signed by DSWD XI OIC-Regional Director Merlinda A. Paragamac, represented by OIC-Assistant Regional Director for Administration, Mia Dulce Corazon Vergara-Monesit, DSWD XI OIC-Chief of Innovations Division, Anne Y. Jickain,  NIA XI Regional Manager, Engr. Jimmy L. Apostol, and DOH-DRMC Chief Admin Officer, Atty. Marvin V. Bohol, DavNor Irrigation Management Office- Acting Division Manager, Engr. Nelson L. Sahot. This partnership reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing food security and poverty alleviation through collaborative efforts.

This partnership reinforces the commitment to promoting agriculture, fisheries, and sustainable food procurement. By engaging Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and Irrigators Associations (IAs) as suppliers, it aims to optimize resource-based economic support while ensuring the quality, quantity, and timely delivery of food supplies. The initiative will strengthen feeding programs, enhance food production efforts, and improve hospital procurement, all while adhering to government procurement policies.

Furthermore, this collaboration seeks to enhance local food security, empower community producers, and support vulnerable sectors through technical assistance, financial facilitation, and coordinated efforts.

The renewal of the MOA underscores the commitment of all parties to strengthening food security and economic opportunities in rural communities. It marks a crucial step in fostering government-led initiatives that address the root causes of hunger and poverty in the region. With this renewed collaboration, DSWD XI, NIA XI, and DOH-DRMC reaffirm their shared commitment to achieving food security and sustainable economic development in the Davao Region.

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