The National Food Authority (NFA) on Friday partnered with the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) to enhance the capabilities of the grains agency’s personnel nationwide.

The partnership was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on the sidelines of the NFA’s 54th anniversary celebration to roll out a modified ladderized program.

An initial allocation of PHP2.5 million has been set aside for the program’s multi-year implementation.

In a press briefing, NFA Administrator Larry Lacson said the initiative will help prepare personnel for the agency’s ongoing modernization and reforms.

“It’s a career or executive development program na pinondohan. Talagang hinanapan natin ng pondo para maisakatuparan dahil noong ini-evaluate natin ang NFA, napakatagal na nung mga huling ganitong programa (that has been funded. We really looked for funds to realize this; we found out in the evaluation that it has been so long since a program like this was rolled out),” he said.

“This is preparing the people for the future of the NFA.”

Around 50 personnel will be selected to participate in the modified ladder program.

“Nationwide ang selection (The selection is nationwide). We will look at different rankings and positions. Of course, i-spread natin iyan (it will be spread),” Lacson said.

The program, meanwhile, will be immediately implemented which may span from six months to one year, according to the NFA. (PNA)