DAVAO ORIENTAL — The Provincial Agricultural Office (PAGRO) together with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) recently celebrated the 2021 Farmers and Fisherfolks month held on May 27-28 at the Capitol Tennis Court Capitol Hill, City of Mati, Davao Oriental.
With the theme “May Pandemya man o wala, Magsasaka’t Mangingisda Maasahan,” the celebration pays tribute to the farmers and fisherfolks who work tirelessly to ensure the availability of food for the people.
Highlighted during the program was the Agri-Fishery Trade Fair wherein farmers and fisherfolks from all over the province set up booths to showcase and sell their respective local produce and products.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, participants for this year was limited. Among the participants were the City of Mati United Market Vendors Association (COMUVA), Don Mariano Marcos, Calapagan, Marayag (DONCAMAR), Don Enrique Lopez, Mayo, Tagabakid (DELMATA), Dawan, Mamali, Macambol, Badas (DAMAMABA), Association of Business Expanders & Help (ABEH), Wannamie Growers Association, and Lucod Mangrove Rural Women’s Association (LUMARWA).
During the celebration, various livelihood assistance to enhance their economic activities were turned over to the participating farmers and fisherfolk. A Solar Dryer was turned over to the Rural Improvement Clubs (RIC) Calapagan while Bottling Sets with Pressure Canner were given to RIC Tagabakid.
Vice Governor Niño Sotero Uy, who conveyed the message of Governor Nelson Dayanghirang, called for the continuing support of all stakeholders to improve the Agri-Fishery Sector. He lauded the efforts of the farmers and fisherfolks who have contributed to the province’s economic growth as a whole, noting how important the said sector is and on how further advancements through innovative programs will very much give impact to the progress and development of the said sector.
Provincial Cooperative Officer and Concurrent Acting Provincial Agriculturist Mr. Rotchie Ravelo expressed his appreciation to the sacrifices and heroism of the farmers and fisherfolk. He urged them to continue their great contributions despite the obstacles of the pandemic.
“We are always here to continue to create programs in answering and accelerating the needs of the Agri-Fishery sector. Further, benefits including assistance and trainings will be provided to pave a way for success to those who want to start and enter in the Agri-Fishery sector,” said Mr. Raul Millana, MFT, BFAR XI Regional Director who graced the activity. | Story by Keithly Balugo, Photos by Keithly Balugo and Noufven Harvey Balasbas
