History

History of Uswag Mangunguma Association (UMA)

Uswag Mangunguma Association (UMA) was conceived with a vision to uplift the lives of farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices in Barangay Pasayan, Batad, Iloilo. The journey of UMA began with its inaugural meeting and election of officers on July 2, 2023, held at the Pasayan Barangay Hall.

Engr. Bonnie De Asis Degala emerged as the pioneering leader, being elected as the first President of UMA during this historic meeting. Assisting him in the administrative responsibilities was the first Secretary, Ms. Ma. Jessa V. Esteban. This significant event was witnessed under the leadership of the Barangay Captain at that time, Hon. Norly D. Plantig.

The foundational document of UMA, its Constitution and By-laws, was crafted with the guidance and support of key individuals from the Batad Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO). Ms. Liza R. Buga, Home Management Technologist/MCDO Designate, and Mr. Jovan Santos, Aquacultural Technologist, played pivotal roles in drafting and ratifying the Constitution and By-laws on July 7, 2023.

Following a meticulous process of complying with the requirements set by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), UMA achieved recognition as a legitimate workers' association. The Registration Certificate No.: RO600-202310-WA-003, signed by Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez, Jr., the DOLE Regional Director for Region 6, validated UMA's status.

At the time of its official registration, UMA proudly boasted a membership of 100 farmers dedicated to the common goal of advancing agriculture in the region. To equip its members with the necessary skills and knowledge, UMA organized its first-ever equipping session, titled UMA Power Training Series (PTS) 101, conducted on November 11 & 12, 2023, at Pasayan, Batad, Iloilo.

Diversifying its efforts, UMA initiated projects such as establishing a nursery for Napier Grass, Madre de Agua, and Mulberry. The distribution of egg incubators to members and the cultivation of various crops and livestock, including rice, corn, cassava, sweet potatoes, ginger, chickens, and ducks, reflected UMA's commitment to agricultural innovation.