In commemoration of the tenacity and grit of the Filipino farmers and fisherfolk, Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) joins in the culminating activity of the 2024 National Farmers and Fisherfolk Month (NFFM) Celebration on May 27, 2024, at the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) Convention Hall, Quezon City.
This year's observance bears the theme "Magsasaka at Mangingisda katuwang sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas", which aims to acknowledge the invaluable role of our farmers and fisherfolk in achieving food security and driving economic growth.
In addition, the significance of this celebration, as proclaimed by Presidential Proclamation No. 33 of 1989, serves as a testament to the immense contributions made by our farmers and fisherfolks towards the advancement of the agricultural sector in the Philippines.
To open the program, Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary and NFFM Chairperson Engr. Roger V. Navarro said that the Philippines is among the most innovative and hopeful nations in Southeast Asia because of the talent and creativity of our people, which is more evident in the agriculture and fisheries sectors. USec. Navarro emphasized that Filipino farmers and fisherfolk play a vital role in our nation's economic progress.
Meanwhile, in her speech, Senator Cynthia A. Villar thanked all the Filipino farmers and fisherfolk for their invaluable contributions to nation-building.
As the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform for 12 years, Senator Villar proudly shared the recent laws that they have passed related to improving and enhancing the lives of the farmers and fisherfolk.
Moreover, the Senator talked about the reforms and regulations that they are currently implementing to strengthen the country's agriculture and fisheries sector.
Afterward, to culminate the NFFM celebration, seven outstanding farmers and fisherfolk were awarded for their remarkable contributions to their respective communities. In addition, ten outstanding farmer directors from various regions were recognized during the event.
Furthermore, the launching of the 2025 Gawad Saka Search was announced. This award-giving body is an annual recognition of outstanding individuals and organizations with exemplary performances and contributions to the advancement and promotion of the country's agricultural and fishery sectors.
Administrative Services Department Manager Atty. Edward M. Campos, Technical Services Department Manager Engr. Danilo A. Axalan, Operations Services Department Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Mr. Mc Christian Julius A. Macaranas II, and Public Information Division OIC Mr. Miguel M. Pilarta represented the agency in the culmination of the 2024 NFFM celebration.
(Mark Angelo N. Perez – Public Information Division)