DUMAGUETE CITY – The Department of Education in the Negros Island Region (DepEd-NIR) is set to replicate rural farm schools in Negros Oriental and Siquijor. Dr. Ramir Uytico, the newly-appointed regional director, announced this initiative during the inauguration of a new school building at South City Elementary School in Barangay Mangnao.
He stated, “We want to replicate the establishment of the farm schools because until now, and it is on record, that it is only Region 6 that has established the first 31 DepEd-run farm schools in the country.”
The DepEd has already allocated funds for these farm schools, some of which are located in Negros Occidental. Republic Act 10618, known as the Rural Farm Schools Act, mandates the establishment of at least one public rural farm school in every province. Dr. Uytico expressed his expectation that the eight divisions in Negros Oriental and Siquijor will have their own farm schools.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara has emphasized the importance of supporting farm schools, highlighting their role in equipping rural learners with essential skills in agriculture and agribusiness. This aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for food security and economic growth.