Bontoc, Mountain Province – The Mountain Province has officially launched the Office of the Provincial Agricultural and Biosystem Engineers (OPABE), making it the first province in the Cordillera Administrative Region to establish such a dedicated department. The announcement was made during the Kapitolyo sa Radyo program on Radio Natin on June 8, 2023.
Engr. Winston Beyden, the head of OPABE, explained that the office was created through Provincial Ordinance No. 465 and implemented via Administrative Order No. 13, series 2023. Four engineers were transferred from the Provincial Agriculturist Office, supplemented by Job Orders, to staff the new office.
The establishment of OPABE is in compliance with Republic Act No. 10915, also known as the Philippine Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Act of 2016, and CSC Memorandum Circular No. 12, series of 2022, which mandate the creation of such offices in local government units (LGUs).
Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr. was commended for his commitment to adhering to national laws, with the support of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in enacting the necessary ordinances.
OPABE will consist of three divisions, pending the Governor's approval:
- Engineering Plans, Design and Specification Division: Focuses on planning and design aspects of agricultural and biosystems projects.
- Program and Project Management Division: Manages the implementation of various projects related to the sector.
- Standard Regulation Division: Ensures adherence to standards and regulations within the field.
The office will offer a range of services, including engineering surveys, preparation and evaluation of plans, designs, technical specifications, feasibility studies, and program of works for various agricultural projects. These projects include irrigation, soil and water conservation, farm machinery, slaughterhouses, and farm-to-market roads. OPABE will also formulate the Provincial Agricultural and Fisheries Mechanization Plan and Program, and oversee training and extension activities for farmers and fisherfolk.
In response to inquiries, Engr. Beyden clarified that OPABE will accept proposals from the private sector and farmers’ associations, but not from individual farmers. He also noted that OPABE will coordinate with the Provincial Agriculturist Office and the Provincial Engineering Office, especially in its early stages. The office's ability to accommodate proposals will depend on their workload and available resources.
Beyden expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to promote the new office on the radio program, aiming to inform the public about OPABE's programs and services.
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