Bannering the tagline “Magsasaka’t Mangingisda Kaagapay para sa Kabuhayan, Ating Itanghal at Bigyang Pugay“, the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) spearheaded the Provincial Gawad Saka Awarding, coinciding with the two-day Agri Trade Fair and Exhibit 2023 on November 23-24, 2023 at the OPA Compound, Trece Martires City. The activity aspired to acknowledge the hard work, commitment, and dedication of farmers and fishermen across the province, as well as to showcase a wide range of goods and produce of Cavite MSMEs.
The program opened with a warm welcome from Ms. Lorna Aviñante, OIC-OPA, thanking everyone who came, participated, and supported the event, which she described as a great opportunity to help the agriculture sector. Mr. Bob Bobadilla, Federasyon ng Magsasaka ng Cavite Chairperson, then, expressed his hope for a successful program and congratulated all the awardees.
Subsequently, Mr. Ruben Perlas, Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer for Cavite, discussed the intervention and initiatives for the industry, notably the rice program for the benefit of the Filipino farmers, in improving their lives and ensuring food sufficiency.
Ms. Merlita Dimaranan of the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian shared that when they visited various farms, she saw the determination of the farmers in developing their farms and livelihoods, not just for their family, but also for the community. “Ang mga magsasaka ay tunay na bayani sa industriya ng agrikultura at livestock”, Ms. Dimaranan emphasized.
Meanwhile, Ms. Sherilou Alfaro, Center Chief Director of Agricultural Training Institute, who attended on behalf of Dr. Rolando V. Maningas, and Ms. Leila Cabreros, OIC-Provincial Director of the Department of Trade and Industry, expressed their delight and honor in being part of the Provincial Gawad Saka Awarding and witnessing the recognition of outstanding farmers and fishermen, including their technical team and partners, who are the representation of commitment in elevating the industry. Ms. Alfaro went on to say, “Sa mga MSMEs, magsasaka, mangingisda na nandito, malaki rin po ang kontribusyon ninyong lahat para sa economic development ng ating lugar.”
Ms. Denesse S. Cajulis, Provincial Information Officer, expressed their commitment to assist in such activity for the common good of the people. “Despite the industrialization, modernization, and digitalization, ang sektor ng agrikultura ay patuloy na pinapahalagahan at patuloy tutulungan sa anumang panahon.”, she stated.
Thereafter, Hon. Shernan S. Jaro, 3rd District Board Member and Chair of the Committee on Agriculture, provided an update on the agricultural programs and initiatives in the province of Cavite.
Afterwards, the farmers received training on SAVERS Technology, which would enhance their knowledge and help in increasing their farm productivity and profitability.
Guests had the opportunity to visit the booths and explore the products being promoted by the exhibitors, thereby boosting their market and networking with other consumers.
ITB – PROVISION OF MEALS TO BE SERVED DURING THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF CAVITE EMPLOYEES’ GENERAL ASSEMBLY