LGU Itogon, through the Municipal Agriculture Office led by Berto O. Bayeng, kicked off the first annual celebration of Farmers’ and Fisherfolks’ Month on May 7, 2024, at the Fianza Memorial Gymnasium, Poblacion.
With the theme, “Magsasaka at Mangingisda Tungo sa Masaganang Agrikultura at Maunlad na Ekonomiya,” the event aims to recognize the hard work, dedication, and resilience of farmers and fisherfolks in providing food for the community.
The opening program was attended by officials and farmers’ and fisherfolks’ organizations from nine barangays in the municipality.
Guest speaker Benguet Provincial Agriculturist Delinia D. Juan underscored that the agricultural industry relies on farmers. “It is recognized that farmers and fisherfolks, with their talents and knowledge, play an important role in bringing about sustainable innovation in agriculture,” she said.
She reminded the farmers of their responsibility to protect the environment, suggesting that planting more trees would sustain water sources.
Additionally, Juan reiterated that farmers must be formally organized and accredited by the DA as Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to avail themselves of various government agricultural assistance.
Mayor Bernard S. Waclin expressed his appreciation to the farmers and fisherfolks, stating that without them, there would be nothing to eat.
Acknowledging that Itogon is known for its mining activities, the mayor observed that the people of Itogon are reverting back to farming. “Dumteng to ti tawen nga agsubli tayo ti farming. Haan tayo nga ibaga nga ti balitok ket umaaneng, haan nga kinanayon nga ada dayta apo,” the mayor said.
Mayor Waclin further highlighted the government’s efforts in promoting agriculture in the municipality, mentioning that the LGU consistently coordinates with concerned agencies in opening farm-to-market roads and providing various government assistance.
During the opening program, farmers’ and fisherfolks’ organizations conducted cacao chocolate tasting, a display of local products, and an information education campaign on farmer profiling.
