To celebrate the province’s festivities, the Department of Agriculture – Cordillera (DA-CAR) joined the 31st Kalinga Founding Anniversary and 7th Bodong Festival held at the Kalinga Sports Complex in Tabuk, Kalinga on February 13, 2026.
Gracing the activity was Engr. Roger V. Navarro, DA Undersecretary for Operations, Agri-Fisheries Mechanization, and for Rural Credit, representing DA Chief Francisco “Kiko” P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. He highlighted the true essence of the Bodong, a peace built on understanding, respect, and shared responsibility, and a system that has guided the people of Kalinga in resolving disputes, protecting communities, and sustaining harmony among ethnolinguistic groups.
Navarro also reiterated the agency’s steadfast support for the agriculture sector in Kalinga.
“The Department of Agriculture recognizes the importance of supporting provinces like Kalinga, where culture and agriculture are inseparable. We are committed to strengthening irrigation systems, providing climate-resilient technologies, and empowering farmers and indigenous communities to improve productivity while preserving traditions,” he said.
He also shared the DA’s agricultural support for FY 2026, mostly for rice production, amounting to ₱648 million for mechanization, production, and postharvest facilities. Meanwhile, two (2) ongoing infrastructure projects worth ₱452 million under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) will enhance rural connectivity and market access.
In addition, ₱93.6 million worth of assistance from the banner programs on Corn, High Value Crops Development, Livestock, and the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program will be allocated to the province this year.
Dubbed the “Rice Granary of the Cordillera,” Kalinga plays a vital role in boosting both the province’s and region’s economy. Aside from its vast rice production, including heirloom rice varieties, the province is also part of the “Corn Corridor of the Cordilleras” due to its high yellow corn production. It likewise supplies root crops, coffee, vegetables, livestock, and poultry to the region.
Navarro also led the turnover of ₱96 million worth of agri-fishery interventions to 30 Farmers’ Cooperatives and Associations and 10 individual beneficiaries during the Bodong Agro-Fair.
A Kadiwa ng Pangulo and the ₱20 Benteng Bigas Program were likewise conducted as part of the festivity.//Cy-j E. Waytan
DA-CAR Press Release No. 25-12