IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF SPECIAL AREAS FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT (SAAD) PROJECTS ON ASSOCIATION BENEFICIARIES AND MEMBER IN TAFT, EASTERN SAMAR

This study assessed the impact of Special Areas for Agricultural Development (SAAD) projects on association beneficiaries and members in Taft, Eastern Samar, utilizing a descriptive research design with focused group discussions and a survey questionnaire. The research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and sustainability of the projects, identify the needs and resources of beneficiaries, and analyze the socio-economic and cultural impacts. The study found that SAAD projects significantly improved income levels, financial stability, and income-generating opportunities for beneficiaries. The projects also fostered positive social and cultural transformations, enhancing community relationships and influencing agricultural practices. Furthermore, the study revealed that SAAD projects effectively provided training and capacity-building programs, leading to improved agricultural knowledge and skills. The findings suggest that the benefits of the SAAD projects are likely to be sustainable in the long term, although challenges and barriers need to be addressed. The study recommends clearly defining roles and responsibilities, developing monitoring and evaluation systems, assessing needs and resources, continuously monitoring socio-economic impacts, promoting social and cultural transformations, providing training for agricultural practices, and ensuring long-term sustainability through strategic planning and community engagement. By implementing these recommendations, the SAAD projects are poised to have a lasting and positive impact on the livelihoods of association beneficiaries and members, fostering improved socio-economic conditions, sustainable agricultural practices, and the preservation of community heritage in Taft, Eastern Samar.