24/07/2026
๐๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ๐ฅ๐๐ ๐ฃ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ | Alternative Livelihood Opportunities for Farmers in the UP Marilog Land Reservation
Tibal-og, Marilog, Davao City | July 23, 2026 โ Despite unfavorable weather conditions, the University of the Philippines Mindanao Land Reservation Management Office (LRMO) successfully distributed starter livelihood packages for chicken production to 15 farmer-beneficiaries, the majority of whom are members of Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities within the UP Marilog Land Reservation.
Each livelihood package included at least three-month-old chickens, feeds, and naturally formulated probiotics, providing beneficiaries with the essential resources to establish or expand backyard poultry production. The distribution forms part of the LRMO's continuing efforts to promote diversified and sustainable livelihood opportunities, helping farming households strengthen their income sources. These beneficiaries comprise the third batch of recipients under the program for 2026.
Before the distribution, participants received an orientation on backyard chicken production, where they learned some practical poultry management techniques and sustainable production practices. Also, the preparation of biologically based feed supplements, including Madre de Agua meal as a feed extender and naturally made probiotics that help improve chickens' health and strengthen their immune systems, were introduced to the farmers.
The orientation and distribution were led by Mr. Joel N. Sagadal, Chief of the Land Reservation Management Office, who emphasized the program's long-term objective:
"Ang tumong ani dili lang paghatag og manokโkundili paghatag og dugang kita ug usa ka malungtarong sistema sa inyong panginabuhian."
("The goal is not simply to provide chickens, but to create additional income and establish a sustainable livelihood system for your families.")
Launched in 2022, the Chicken Production Project is a collaborative initiative of the Obu Manuvu TribeโAncestral Domain Management Office, the Department of Agriculture Region XI, and the UP Mindanao Land Reservation Management Office. The project is implemented under the Land Reservation Development Management Program (LandRAMP), which seeks to improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development across the reservation areas of Marilog, Davao City, and Laak, Davao de Oro.
This initiative reflects the partners' continuing commitment to empowering Indigenous Peoples, supporting marginalized farming communities, strengthening local food security, and fostering resilient and sustainable rural livelihoods.
-amuma