The Department of Agriculture (DA) has formed the Agricultural Cooperative Enterprise Development (ACED) Services that is expected to enhance the capabilities of agricultural groups across the country.

The agency said in a statement yesterday the unit was created under Memorandum Circular 22 and will operate within both the central and regional field offices of the DA to strengthen food security and improve farm productivity.

“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,” said DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

The DA said ACED Services will be overseen by undersecretary for operations Roger Navarro who will be instrumental in helping formulate policies and plans that support agricultural cooperatives.

The ACED is also expected to coordinate efforts and oversee the implementation of projects designed to address developmental gaps and adjust strategies as needed apart from providing comprehensive training programs for cooperatives and associations, including collaborations with other government agencies, private institutions and civil society organizations. 

The new office will also lead the digital transformation of agricultural cooperatives, promoting the use of data analytics, online marketplaces and climate adaptation tools.

Tiu Laurel  assured  the ACED Services will implement feedback mechanisms to continually improve and adjust strategies based on stakeholder input.

“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,” Tiu Laurel said.