March 7, 2024 – A momentous event unfolded through the concerted efforts of the Department of Agriculture in line with their High Value Crops Development Program RFO III Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division, and 1Bataan Farms, highlighting the transformative power of partnership in driving agricultural development forward.
Spearheaded and collaborated by the City Government of Balanga through the City Agriculture Office, the Provincial Government of Bataan through the Provincial Agriculture Office, the Department of Agriculture, Municipalities of Limay and Hermosa, this event showcased groundbreaking initiatives aimed at revolutionizing farming and agricultural practices as well as ensuring food security.
At the helm of this extraordinary gathering was Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, whose presence underscored the significance of the occasion. Riding in by helicopter, Secretary Laurel landed amidst a warm welcome from local dignitaries, including 2nd District Rep. Hon. Albert S. Garcia, 3rd District Rep. Hon. Maria Angela S. Garcia, COB Mayor Francis Anthony S. Garcia, Pusong Pinoy Partylist Representative Hon. Jernie Jett Nisay, Mayor Nelson C. David of Limay, and Mayor Antonio Joseph R. Inton of Hermosa.
The focal point of the event was the 1Bataan Farm at Mr. Anthony Villanueva’s Farm at Brgy. Tuyo, Balanga City, Bataan, where Secretary Laurel engaged in a tour, interacting with local farmers and relishing a breakfast spread of fresh produce straight from the farm. This symbolic gesture embodied the essence of farm-to-table sustainability, emphasizing the importance of locally sourced food.
Partnerships were solidified through the ceremonial signing of Memorandum of Agreement for pivotal projects such as the Limay Zero KM Food Project and the Limay Invests for Farmers’ Triumph (LIFT) Project. These agreements symbolized a commitment to empowering local farmers and bolstering food production within the region. Additionally, the awarding of a ceremonial check for the KADIWA Grant and the turnover of an Onion Cold Storage Facility highlighted the tangible support being extended to agricultural initiatives.
The ceremonial signing of these projects garnered full support and witnessed the participation of key figures, leaders, and focal persons from the local, regional, and national offices, affirming their commitment to the initiatives.
Precision farming took center stage as Secretary Laurel and other key figures outlined the significance of leveraging technology for high-value crop production. Through initiatives like the Limay Zero Kilometer Food Project, which promotes the consumption of locally grown produce, stakeholders aim to reduce transportation costs and environmental impact while fostering healthier eating habits.
The event also served as a platform for expressions of gratitude and solidarity. Mayor Francis Anthony S. Garcia and other local leaders conveyed appreciation for the collaborative efforts driving agricultural advancement. Dr. Ruby S. Matibag, President of Bataan Peninsula State University, expressed overwhelming gratitude for the support extended by the Department of Agriculture, recognizing the profound impact on the university and the province.
Inspirational messages resonated from Governor Jose Enrique S. Garcia III, Vice Governor Cristina M. Garcia, 2nd District Representative Hon. Albert Raymond S. Garcia, and Provincial Board Member Atty. Tonyboy Roman, representing 1st District Representative Geraldine B. Roman. These messages underscored their unwavering support and collective commitment to ensuring food security and uplifting the farming community for the farmers and agricultural sectors, aligning with the objectives and vision of the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ project initiated by the national government
OIC Regional Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture RFO III, Mr. Eduardo L. Lapuz Jr., graced the event wherein he introduced the Guest of Honor, Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.
Secretary Laurel illuminated the transformative projects spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture, emphasizing their dedication to agricultural advancement. Expressing deep gratitude, he conveyed the honor bestowed upon them to visit Bataan and contribute to the cultivation of farming and agriculture not only within the province but across regions and throughout the entire country. This commitment underscores the Department’s overarching mission to bolster agricultural sustainability and prosperity nationwide, laying the groundwork for a thriving agricultural landscape for generations to come.
