The Department of Agriculture (DA) clinched the win in the Philippines’ Campaign of the year at the GovMedia Conference and Awards 2025, with its interpersonal communication strategy, DA Information Caravan.
The DA Information Caravan was launched in 2017 by the DA – Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division (AFID). It offers engaging lectures, presentations, and discussions on the Department’s programmes and projects to farmers, fishers, and local government units, thus effectively serving as an avenue for knowledge sharing and empowering participants in their daily agricultural endeavours.
It has since been a part of the DA’s annual information campaign activities that embrace modern innovations, reduce food costs, ensure food security, and attract private investment in farming and fisheries.
Technical experts from various fields of agriculture and fisheries serve as resource speakers and equip participants with the latest trends and information. After each presentation, an open forum further encourages sharing of newfound knowledge, amplifying the event’s impact throughout their communities.
Information kiosks are also available at the venue, buzzing with activity and staffed by representatives from DA units. During “clinic-quing” sessions, participants can engage with experts to discuss their specific issues, receiving immediate answers to their concerns. Information, education, and communication materials such as techno-guides, brochures, pamphlets, and promotional items are distributed to enrich their experience.
At the same time, a third-party provider conducts a survey to gauge participants’ feedback and the campaign’s effectiveness.
During its latest stint in 2024, aside from the usual print and social media collateral being used to promote the caravan, a live stream of the event was also conducted to reach more farmers, fisherfolk, and other interested individuals from other parts of the globe. For broader coverage, print, radio, and television broadcast partners were also invited. The Department also distributed agricultural assistance in the form of farm implements, planting materials, and even farm animals through the campaign.
Since its conception, the DA Information Caravan has catered to 11,000 households as well as over 6,000 students in 21 provinces in the Philippines.
The campaign’s positive feedback and effectiveness have inspired further initiatives, with other agencies launching similar initiatives modelled after the DA Information Caravan.
“This initiative reinforces national efforts to uplift the agriculture and fishery sector and enhances Filipino farmers’ livelihoods,” the agency said.
The GovMedia Conference and Awards 2025 celebrates the achievements of government projects and initiatives from both government organizations and private sector companies that are not only transforming Asia Pacific but are also making a significant impact across the globe.
