Over a thousand farmers gathered at the newly established Rice Processing Center III in Barangay Pugaro, Balungao, for a one-day Farmers’ Summit on March 26, 2025.

The summit served as a platform to update farmers on key agricultural development programs and initiatives facilitated by the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), and private seed and fertilizer companies. The event was organized by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Balungao through the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist.

Former Pangasinan Governor Amado “Pogi” Espino graced the event as the Keynote Speaker, alongside Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office I (DA-RFO I) Regional Technical Director for Operations Engr. Dennis Tactac, who represented Regional Executive Director John Pascual.

Among the event highlights were discussions on Malusog Rice, crop insurance, and training opportunities led by PhilRice, PCIC, and ATI-RTC.

The Farmers’ Summit remains a key initiative of the Balungao LGU, aiming to equip farmers with vital information and updates on agricultural programs while encouraging their active participation in government-led projects for a more sustainable farming sector.