BONTOC, Mountain Province – Making history, Mountain Province welcomed the Cordillera Administrative Region Federation of Irrigators’ Associations (CARFIA) for its annual CARFIA Congress, marking the federation’s first-ever convention in the province.
This significant gathering commenced on January 16, 2025, at the Governor Leonard G. Mayaen Sports Complex, Bontoc, Mountain Province. The congress brought together over a hundred farmer-leaders from the six provinces of the Cordillera region Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, and Kalinga as well as delegates from the Upper Chico River Irrigation System (UCRIS)-Tabuk and UCRIS-Quezon.
Despite the travel challenges, their enthusiasm and active participation marked the opening day’s activities.
Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., welcomed the participants with an inspiring message, emphasizing the importance of irrigation systems in ensuring food security and fostering sustainable development in the Cordilleras.
“Irrigation systems are the lifelines of our Cordilleran farmers, playing a crucial role in sustaining food security and fostering sustainable growth. These are not just water management systems; they are vital investments for the future generations of our communities,” he stated.
Mayor Tudlong expressed gratitude to CARFIA for selecting Bontoc as the congress venue and encouraged participants to explore the town’s breathtaking tourist destinations during their stay.
In his message, Mountain Province Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr., highlighted the significance of agriculture to the region, noting that a large portion of the Cordillera population relies on farming for their livelihood.
“This annual gathering is a vital platform for fostering collaboration not only with the government but also with private sector stakeholders,” he said.
The governor also reiterated Mayor Tudlong’s sentiments and urged participants to enjoy the natural beauty of Bontoc before returning to their respective provinces.
Meanwhile, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Samson Ezra Gomez, President of the Montañosa Federated Irrigators’ Association (MOFIA), underscored the importance of the congress in strengthening the unity and collective efforts of irrigators’ associations across the Cordilleras.
“We are not just a mere organization. We are the channel for change and progress that leads the farming community and our country to a better future. The driving force of our country’s economy is the agriculture sector and with our unity and active cooperation in this CARFIA congress, we continue to pursue greatness for a better life and development of the farming community,” he passionately declared.
Likewise, Political Affairs Officer II Dionisio Wacdisen, representing Congressman Maximo Dalog, Jr., called on the delegates to embody the spirit of brotherhood in making a vital change to the agriculture sector under the theme “Irrigators Association Kooperatiba: Daan para Guminhawa and Buhay ng mga Magsasaka.”
He emphasized the need for collective action to address the impacts of climate change, which are increasingly affecting the Cordillera region.
Adding excitement to the occasion, delegates from Abra showcased their rich culture through a traditional dance performance, bringing joy and energy to the event. Further, the Provincial Pattong Group and the Provincial Choral Group wowed the audience with their presentations. By Shannon Anthea S. Pagaduan