Phl first province-led climate-smart adaptation program on rice farming launched in Kalinga

BAGUIO CITY (April 16, 2025) -- Kalinga province has launched the first province-led climate-smart adaptation program focused on rice farming to boost agricultural resilience to climate change.

Governor James Edduba formally introducing the initiative during a ceremony in Tabuk City said, the program uses climate-risk mapping and localized adaptation planning to help farmers manage climate-related threats.  It seeks to strengthen long-term sustainability in rice production and support farming communities.

Edduba has signed a Statement of Support, underscoring Kalinga’s role as a critical watershed for neighboring areas. “Kalinga is a watershed for neighboring provinces, and what we do here affects many others. We support this fully and will make sure that our plans bring sustainable and measurable benefits to our farming communities,” he explained.

Agriculture remains a significant source of income for Kalinga, and its provincial capital, Tabuk City, being the highland region’s top rice producer.

The program’s groundwork began in May 2024 and has since involved preparatory activities by the Provincial Agriculture Office led by engineer Domingo Bakilan.

Kalinga acknowledges the support of the Philippine Rice Research Institute in Isabela and partner agencies, which include the Department of Agriculture–Cordillera Administrative Region Agricultural Program Coordinating Office, City and Municipal Agriculture Offices, and the National Irrigation Administration.