Manila, Sept. 10 -- The Department of Agriculture in Bicol (DA-5) assured that it is strengthening support programs for farmers and agricultural production to help sustain food supply and ease prices in the region.

In an interview on Thursday, DA-5 spokesperson Lovella Guarin said the agency continues to provide production inputs, promote mechanization, expand irrigation support, and extend financial assistance to farmers affected by various production challenges.

"DA production inputs are always ready, and we are also utilizing mechanization," she said.

She said the DA is also working to maximize rice farmlands that can be served by irrigation as part of efforts to sustain rice production.

She said the agency is set to sign a memoran...