DA, Germany sign agreement on palay, abaca

The Philippines and Germany have signed agreements to boost income of abaca farmers by giving them access to markets here and abroad and to provide education and training to rice producers on specific farming techniques and use of modern technology, a top official said.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said the following agreements were signed: Abaca Sustainability Initiative (ASI), which will be implemented in Madalag and Libacao in Aklan, Janiuay and Maasin in Iloilo; and Better Rice Initiative Asia-Fostering Agriculture and Rice Marketing by Improved Education and Rural Advisory Services (BRIA-FARMERS) in Aurora, Iloilo and Southern Leyte.