In a symbolic kick-off activity for the month-long celebration of Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month, DA-RFO I OIC-Regional Executive Director Nestor D. Domenden turned over the symbolic Key of Commitment to Mr. Vincent Adorna as he assumes his role as Farmer Director for the entire month of May.
The ceremony was virtually witnessed by farmers from different associations in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and Pangasinan along with some AFC members from La Union and other DA Ilocos key officials who were present at the venue.
As Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council (RAFC) Chairman since 1998, Mr. Adorna once again assumes the role as farmer-director of the Department but his responsibilities is limited only to non-policy determining activities that will not affect government accounting rules & regulations as well as Civil Service rules.
RED Domenden meanwhile highlighted the contributions of farmers and fishers who in their own sincere efforts had helped in the agency’s successful operation of its activities.
“To the great men and women of the fields, our farmers and fisherfolk heroes in whose hands lay the assurance that no Filipino shall ever go hungry, this celebration is especially made in your honor.”, Domenden said as he greeted the participants and thanked them for their great contributions especially during the pandemic.
He specifically mentioned the generosity of the group in supporting the KADIWA community pantries staged by the DA regional office and its satellite stations.
“55 groups of farmers and nine individuals willfully donated about 7.5 tons of agricultural products as support to the Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita community pantry amounting to 400,000 and benefitting 2,000 families,” he said.
“We know that this gesture is not enough to express our support and deepest gratitude for all your sacrifices to attain the agency’s goal and objectives especially during these trying times. These almost two years have been challenging because of the pandemic and the African Swine Fever virus. As our partners in agricultural development, it is during times such as this that we count so much on your support. We know that your commitment to work as frontline heroes will certainly push as to hurdle whatever challenges that come our way and we can certainly overcome,” RED Domenden noted.
Meanwhile, a Certificate of Recognition was awarded to each of the farmers and fisherfolk associations who actively participated in making food available and accessible amid the pandemic thru the KADIWA ni Ani at Kita program of DA. ###
