“Through this meeting, we again assess and reassess our strategies as to the implementation of the different programs and projects. Though we cannot provide all the needs of our stakeholders, through the convergence initiative of the RMC, we will maximize all our resources to implement our programs and projects to deliver a quality service to our clientele” stated Director Annie Q. Bares as she spearheads today the 1st quarter meeting with the members of the Regional Management Council at DA-BAC conference hall.

The activity aims to discuss the updates of the following issues and concerns: climate outlook, the status of ASF awareness in Ilocos Norte, province-led agriculture and fisheries extension system (PAFES) implementation, and the CY 2022 harmonized extension support, education, and training services (ESETS) and extension service providers (ESP) in region 1.

The final output during the integration workshop on MC No. 58 and other matters was also discussed.

“Through this meeting, we will be coming up with a unified action to address the pressing issues and concerns and be updated on the various matters concerning our own offices” added Director Bares.

Mr. Gener Quitelong, DOST-PAGASA representative, discussed the updates on the climate outlook in the country to help the council in crafting solutions to address the looming El Niño which is expected in the months of October, November, and December. However, advice to the farmers is yet to be given once the strength of the impending phenomenon is determined as data varies monthly.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sam Castro of DA-BAI discussed the ASF update in the province of Ilocos Norte and the recently conducted Super Pig Tours, an awareness campaign to prevent the widespread of the ASF virus. He likewise commended the region for the preventive measures undertaken by the DA and for having the most numbers of surveillance areas in the country.

In addition, updates on the CY 2022 harmonized ESETS and ESP were presented by Dir. Rogelio Evangelist, ATI-RTC 1 director while Ms. Doris Joy Garcia discussed the updates on PAFES implementation in region 1 and the final output during the integration workshop on MC #58.

The activity was concluded with a discussion on the schedule of the next RMC meeting and the announcement of birthday celebrators for the months of January to April.