BAGUIO CITY – In recognition of the invaluable contributions of farmers and fisherfolk in the Cordillera, regional line agencies (RLAs) and Local Chief Executives (LCEs) commit their unwavering support to the farmers and fisherfolk during the culmination program of the Farmers’ and Fisherfolks’ Month (FFM) held in Melvin Jones Grandstand, Baguio City on May 30, 2024.
The Departments of Tourism (DOT), Trade and Industry (DTI), Agrarian Reform (DAR), Science and Technology (DOST), Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Interior and Local Government (DILG), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), as well as LCEs of Benguet and Mt. Province collectively recognized the agriculture sector as the backbone of the nation’s economy and food security.
Benguet Governor Melchor D. Diclas underscored the importance of farmers and fisherfolk being the lifeline of the country’s economy and the backbone of food security. “The FFM is indeed a celebration of our agricultural heritage and the invaluable contribution of farmers and fisherfolk that have shared with the society.
The theme “Preserving Heritage, Capturing Values” is a reflection of the essence of the Cordilleran culture. Our farmers and fisherfolk have long been the protectors of our rich agricultural traditions, nurturing our lands and waters with love and dedication.
The paella à la Cordillera is like us Cordillerans, we blend into a united and one Cordillera despite our differences. As we appreciate this unique local cuisine, let us also remember the hands that tilled the soil, tended the crops, and harvested the produce,” Diclas said.
Further, Mountain Province Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, and Congressman Maximo Dalog, Jr. as well as NCIP-CAR Regional Director (RD) Atty. Roland Calde also honored the contributions and dedication of farmers and fisherfolk in food security, nourishment and sustenance while also committing their continued support to farmers and fisherfolk in the region. They also emphasized the cultural essence of the Paella à la Cordillera by showcasing the farmers’ indigenous produce in the dish and paving a way to unlock and boost the economic potential of the region’s agricultural products.
Additionally, DOT-CAR RD Jovita Ganongan also emphasized the celebration’s role in promoting food and farm tourism, which aligns with the agency’s vision. She also said that the dish also pays tribute to the steadfast commitment and resilience of the dedicated Cordilleran farmers.
Furthermore, DSWD-CAR RD Maria Aplaten considers the farmers and fisherfolk as the custodians of the region’s heritage and values in agriculture, as she recognizes the dedication and resilience of the agriculture sector. “The agriculture sector’s efforts are living testaments to the heritage we cherish, a legacy of perseverance, wisdom, and a profound connection to the earth. They preserve the agricultural practices, safeguarding the knowledge and techniques passed down through generations,” she expressed.
On the other hand, DTI-CAR RD Juliet P. Lucas shared that agriculture is now formalized as a part of the trading industry “as farmers and fisherfolk continue to level up in improving the productivity and sell quality produce, as well as process traditional and contemporary product.”
DILG-CAR RD Araceli San Jose meanwhile encouraged the agriculture sector to get involved in local government to further promote their advocacy in agriculture, pointing out the importance of having a representative from the sector in every stage of planning and implementation. “Importante pong sa ganitong mga pagkakataon ay kayo ay aming marinig at mapakinggan, upang sa gayon ay matugunan ng pamahalaan ang inyong tunay na pangangailangan,” she said.
Moreover, DAR-CAR RD Samuel Solomero reiterated the agency’s commitment as public servants in ensuring that the agriculture sector will be provided with their land titles, and support their livelihood through delivering support services and agrarian justice. “Our farmers are the backbone of our society. Their honest and tireless labor deserves our utmost respect and gratitude. Supporting them is not just a celebration today, but a commitment we must uphold everyday,” he stated.
Lastly, DOST-CAR RD Nancy Bantog disclosed the agency’s effort to support the agriculture sector through the provision of solutions and open opportunities by developing and implementing innovative interventions and technologies. “Agriculture is one of our priority industries in our Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP). This program equips micro, small, and medium enterprises with the latest technologies to boost their productivity and efficiency, enabling them to streamline operations while staying competitive.
Meanwhile, the Smart Food Value Chain Program focuses on enhancing the entire agricultural supply chain from production to distribution by implementing smart technologies and optimizing processes that maximize yield and minimize post-harvest losses,” she shared adding that the food safety and nutrition program also caters to farmers and fisherfolk to adopt safe handling practices and quality standards, safeguarding the consumer health and promoting a balanced diet.
The highlight of the FFM culmination program, Paella à la Cordillera, features indigenous ingredients such as the chong-ak (unoy) heirloom rice from Pasil, Kalinga, pinuneg and kiniing from Benguet, Abra longganisa, and highland vegetables, which aligns to the activity’s theme “Preserving Heritage, Capturing Values.” By Cy-j E. Waytan
