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DA WV - LOMS, Doña Pepita Aquino, Iloilo City (2026)

11/11/2023

𝐃𝐀-𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞

The DA-Western Visayas Regional Executive Director, RED Dennis R. Arpia emphasized the critical role of women in agriculture and in life in a heartfelt and inspiring closing program message, branding them as the unsung heroes whose resilience is the driving force in overcoming the challenging and often frustrating conditions of agriculture.

Director passionately expressed, "Agriculture is really nothing without women, so is life; women are unsung heroes. The agriculture industry, with all its challenges and frustrations, finds its strength in the continuous resilience of women who tirelessly champion its cause. Perhaps the reason it remains unheard is that we haven't looked at it closely enough."

Highlighting the need for greater recognition, the director pointed to figures like USEC Agnes as exemplars of the essential component women play. "It is time now to acknowledge that rural women, exemplified by USEC Agnes, hold the keys to many roads, guiding the world along these paths. Let's not grow weary of activities like these because, for me, success is witnessed as a whole. Emphasizing the success of one also sheds light on the challenges faced by the 99."

Addressing the role of the Department of Agriculture, the director stressed the importance of molding enablers rather than just finding winners. "We need to realize that the failure of 99 is a part of our journey. Like the good quality of women who accept fault even when it's not theirs, acknowledging our shortcomings is the first step towards solving the problems in agriculture."

The director concluded, "As enablers, we must recognize that our shortcomings are inherent, and unless we are willing to confront them, progress may be elusive. Let us remember that we are difficult to talk to and hard to love, but through acknowledging our own flaws, we can pave the way for transformative change in agriculture."

Moreover, a commendation echoed a gratitude and admiration, Undersecretary Agnes Catherine Miranda expressed her appreciation for the exceptional hosting by the DA-Western Visayas team during the recent event. Usec Agnes praised the region as the host for ensuring a successful and unforgettable experience, emphasizing the impeccable punctuality that characterized the implementation of programs on day one.

She remarked, "What truly captured me during my day one in the region is the punctuality with which programs were executed, maximizing our time effectively. Such dedication to precision is a testament to the region's commitment to excellence." The undersecretary went on to express her lasting appreciation for the support received from all local governments, acknowledging that this achievement wouldn't have been possible without the tireless efforts of DAWV-GAD Focal Person, Carmelita C. Fantilanan.

As she concludes her closing remarks, Usec Agnes emphasizes the DA-Western Visayas team's smooth teamwork and diligent efforts, showcasing their commitment to guaranteeing the success and significance of the program. She also anticipates similar dedication from other regions. # # # #

Text by: Chrystal Jane Almendralejo (DAWV-SPO)
Photos by: Jerem Deguzman (DAWV-RAFIS)

Department of Agriculture - Western Visayas

11/11/2023

𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞, 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭

In a gathering that celebrated the indomitable spirit of rural women in agriculture, the Sharing of Best Practices session from the 2022 Search for Outstanding Rural Women brought together inspiring figures from across the Philippines. The distinguished presenters included Jolenda F. Lomas-e, Kaleo, Barlig, Mountain Province; Evelyn G. Banan, San Jose, Caba, La Union; Mercy Andres Biala, Malalinta, San Manuel, Isabela; Veronica I. Lastima, Malalinta, Sn Roque, Sumilao, Bukidnon; Sonia B. Estrella, Taruc, Socorro, Surigao Del Norte; and Dolores R. Ceralbo, Pandanon, Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental each representing their respective regions with pride.

Reynilda Partida, the recently declared 2023 Regional Winner of Western Visayas in the Search for Outstanding Rural Women, shared also her best practices and initiatives during a session that resonated with hope and resilience.

Following the enriching presentations, an engaging open forum provided an opportunity for all attendees to share their thoughts. A notable suggestion came from Regional Director of BFAR and DAWV GFPS Vice Chairperson, RD Remia Apparri, who emphasized the importance of creating a roadmap for these women. This roadmap aims to guide them in determining the next steps and activities after the engagements, allowing them to witness firsthand the best practices of women champions in agriculture during visits to farms in Western Visayas.

Undersecretary of Finance and DA-GAD Focal Point System Chairperson, Agnes Catherine Miranda, took the stage to commend and congratulate all the women presenters. She encouraged them to see beyond the challenges and focus on the silver lining, expressing hope that their initiatives and innovations would echo not only within the Philippines but resonate globally.

The event showcased not only the remarkable achievements of these rural women but also served as a platform for the exchange of ideas, fostering a collaborative spirit that transcends geographical boundaries. # # #

Text by: Chrystal Jane Almendralejo (DAWV-SPO)
Photos by: Jerem Deguzman (DAWV-RAFIS)

Department of Agriculture - Western Visayas

11/11/2023

𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐝𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐬

The Undersecretary of Finance and DA-GAD Focal Point System Chairperson, Agnes Catherine Miranda, recently embarked on a visit to McNester Food Products in Western Visayas. The purpose of the visit was to engage with the 2022 Search for Outstanding Rural Women Winner, who accompanied Undersecretary Miranda on this enlightening trip.

On the other hand, Mayor Samuel T. Gumarin, MD, and Vice Mayor Cyril C. Beltran extended their warm greetings to participants during the courtesy call at the municipal hall of Buenavista, Guimaras.

Accompanied by the 2022 Outstanding Rural Women Winner, the delegation visited the renowned McNester Food Products, owned by Rebecca C. Tubongbanua, the 2011 Regional Winner for the Search for Outstanding Rural Women in Western Visayas. During the visit, Ms. Tubongbanua shared her inspiring life testimony, leaving Undersecretary Miranda astounded. In response, Usec commended Tubongbanua, describing her as an epitome of resilience, proving that women can overcome challenges by conquering the inner voice that often doubts their capabilities.

Following the enlightening visit, Usec Agnes and her team proceeded to San Miguel, Jordan, Guimaras, for a Welcome Dinner hosted by Governor JC Rhaman Nava, MD. Prior to the dinner. The atmosphere was equally welcoming, where SP Cecile Gumarin conveyed a heartfelt welcome to all attendees. Notably, the event enjoyed the presence and unwavering support of Alvin Nava, the esteemed Provincial Agriculturist of Guimaras, emphasizing the united commitment to advancing the cause of rural women empowerment in the province.

Moreover, the technical working group of the DA-GAD Program, led by Focal Point Lovelia Gamo, shed light on the province's commitment to strengthening women empowerment. Gamo highlighted the Integrated Alliance of Women in Guimaras (IWAG), organized by Congresswoman Lucilia Nava, MD, where an impressive 90% of women in the province are active members.

Expressing her satisfaction with the initiative, Usec Agnes emphasized that the activity served its purpose by providing valuable insights and ideas for women across the region. She acknowledged the significance of such programs but urged the DA-GAD Program to do more to ensure that the legacy of empowerment initiated in Guimaras continues to thrive for generations to come. # # #

Text by: Chrystal Jane Almendralejo (DAWV-SPO)
Photos by: Jerem Deguzman (DAWV-RAFIS)

Department of Agriculture - Western Visayas

07/11/2023

𝐃𝐀 𝐆𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐥𝐞𝐝𝐠𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬

Iloilo City, November 7, 2023 - The Department of Agriculture (DA) has launched the Gender and Development Program Knowledge Management of Best Practices of Rural Women, marking a significant step towards recognizing and empowering women in the agriculture and fishery sectors. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Director cordially welcomed the gathering and stressed the important role that women play in these sectors.

Regional Director of BFAR Remia Aparri, DAWV GAD Vice Chairperson highlighted, "Women are leaders; we have the ability, we are strong, independent women in agriculture and fisheries. From 2007 to 2016, women contributed 25% of the workforce in the agriculture sector, yet their work often goes unrecognized because it is considered part of their household responsibilities. It's time to acknowledge the women who have initiated positive change in their communities through community organizing and Information Education Campaigns."

The DA's Gender and Development Focal Point System (GFPS) will conduct knowledge management activities, focusing on the best practices of selected awardees of the DA Search for Outstanding Rural Women (SORW). This initiative aims to capture, store, share, and effectively manage the knowledge and experiences of these outstanding rural women from various regions in the country. The ultimate goal is to create a collection of vital Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials on Gender and Development (GAD).

This event is hosted by the DAWV GAD Program, which will showcase selected National Winners of the SORW and successful Rural Women Entrepreneurs who are beneficiaries of the GREAT Women Project. These women continue to excel, foster collaborations, and innovate, driving progress in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

RD Aparri added, "We hope to inspire future generations, and we challenge outstanding women in agriculture and fisheries to motivate and encourage young people, especially young women, to engage in these sectors. We must prepare the next generation now; they are the future."

Following the program's introductory session and the rationale of the activity, participants engaged in a benchmarking activity that included visits to three farms run by Outstanding Rural Women in Western Visayas namely; Concepcion Carillo Integrated Farm at Brgy. Cairohan, Bingawan, Iloilo owned by 2018 Regional Outstanding Woman Connie Carillo, Deala’s Integrated Farm at Brgy. Tinocuan, Di**le, Iloilo owned by 2016 Regional Outstanding Woman Lea P. Deala and Bea’s Farm at Brgy. Dongsol, Pototan, Iloilo owned by 2021 Outstanding Woman Mercidita Cubar.

This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into the accomplishments and innovations of these women, serving as a source of inspiration for others in the field.

The DA’s commitment to gender equality and empowering women is evident in initiatives like this, which recognize the indispensable contributions of rural women to the agriculture and fisheries sectors. Their success stories will continue to inspire and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in these critical industries. # # #

Text by: Chrystal Jane Almendralejo (DAWV-SPO)
Photos by: Jerem Deguzman (DAWV-RAFIS)

Department of Agriculture - Western Visayas

21/10/2023

Flowers for special ocassion.

The IPs community in Brgy Masaroy, Calinog, Iloilo was trained on Floral Arrangement for special ocassions. A value adding initiative in line with their flower production project funded by DA 4K program this Cy 2023.

Mr. Baltazar Gumana, MAFC Chairperson and Calinog LGU consultant on cutflower is very supportive to the IPs. He act as resource person and shared his technical knowledge freely without hesitation.

12 IPs (8 female & male) were taught on how to make fresh flower arts arrangeents like: corsage, bouquet, vase arrangement (round/oval, horizontal, triagular), potpourri making, dried plants and flower arts, and framing of dried plants & flowers.

Male IPs were also taught on how to make baskets & flower holders using indigenous materials like kakawate branches, bamboo pole, & dried banana stalk.

With LGU continous support, the activity was successfully done and marked a memories of learnings to the Bukidnon tribe.

The IPs will start diplaying & selling their products on October 28, 2023 at Calinog Public Market & outside Calinog Cemetery during All Souls Day and All Saints Day.

20/10/2023

𝙎𝙖𝙣 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙯𝙤, 𝙂𝙪𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙨 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙏𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙨 𝘼𝙈𝙄𝘼 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩 𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝙡𝙖𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝘼𝙈𝙄𝘼 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙀𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙖𝙨𝙢

In a significant move aimed at bolstering agricultural resilience and local economies, the Office of Sangguniang Bayan, led by Hon. Constantino T. Cordero Jr. passed Resolution No. 176 series of 2023 on September 06, 2023, officially declaring every Thursday of the week as the Adaptation and Mitigation Initiative in Agriculture (AMIA) Market Day for the Municipality of San Lorenzo, Guimaras.

The declaration came to life yesterday, October 19, 2023, with an enthusiastic official launch of the AMIA Market, featuring the active participation of five local associations, three of which are directly affiliated with AMIA, namely; M. Chavez Unified Farmers Association (MUFA), Igcawayan Farmers Association-Rice Cluster (IFA-RC), Cabano Barangay Irrigators Development Association (CBIDA), and the other two were Gaban Small Farmers Association (GBA) and San Lorenzo Vegetables Growers Association (SLOVEGA) . The launch of this initiative marks a vital step towards reinforcing agricultural sustainability and community development in the region.

The Provincial Agriculturist of the province of Guimaras, Alvin Nava, in attendance at the launch event, applauded the alignment of the AMIA program's objectives with the Governor's roadmap for strengthening the agri-fishery sector in the province. This enthusiastic backing from the provincial level highlights the significance of the AMIA initiative.

"The alignment of AMIA's objectives with the Governor's roadmap exemplifies a unified vision for fortifying Guimaras' agri-fishery sector, echoing the vital importance of this initiative at the provincial level,” said Nava.

Among the five municipalities in Guimaras, San Lorenzo has emerged as a prominent contributor to the province's agricultural abundance which is currently tagged as the “food basket” of the province.

Hon. Cordero Jr. emphasized the importance of sustaining this remarkable avenue of agricultural productivity, stating that it aligns with the collective vision to ensure that the people of Guimaras have access to chemical-free, organically grown vegetables of excellent quality. This commitment to providing the community with nutritious and environmentally friendly produce not only promotes healthy living but also contributes to the agricultural prosperity of the entire province.

The AMIA Project Focal, Carmelita C. Fantilanan speaking at the launch event, expressed profound gratitude for the immense support received from both the province and the LGU. She emphasized that this support addresses a long-felt need among farmers and aligns with a shared vision to enhance not only the resilience of local farmers but also the economic aspects of their livelihoods.

"In the bloom of this initiative, we express heartfelt thanks for the robust support from our province and LGU. This support not only fulfills a long-held aspiration among farmers but also nurtures a shared vision for fortifying both their resilience and the economic vitality of their livelihoods," said Fantilanan.

She conveyed that their dedicated team is actively engaged in the harmonization of the project with the banner programs of the Department of Agriculture Western Visayas (DAWV). This concerted effort is driven by the recognition that aligning the project with the Department's initiatives will have a substantial and positive impact on their farmer partners.

A notable example of the fruitful alignment came to light during the recent visit of the National Director of Organic Agriculture, Bernadette F. San Juan, Director IV. During the visit, Director San Juan made a commitment to provide three shredder machines to three barangays of AMIA. This commitment is poised to be a game-changer, significantly boosting the production capacity of these barangays in their vermicomposting efforts.

Moreover, the launch of the AMIA Market was marked by a vibrant display of various vegetables and agricultural products by the participating associations. As a result, the community saw remarkable success, with the five associations collectively accumulating a total of Php 8,386.00 pesos after selling their produce to nearby residents and enthusiastic participants. This success signifies the potential for both local farmers and the community to benefit from the AMIA Market initiative in the days and weeks to come.

Nava further exhorts the farmers to think about joining the initiative in a Kadiwa Store within Guimaras Electric Corporation (Guimelco) on each day of an electric payment.

Provincial Agriculturist Nava continued, "I urge you to seize this opportunity to showcase your produce during the electric payment days at Guimelco so that we may together strive to strengthen your position in the market and win the esteem that you truly deserve. # # #

Text by Chrystal Jane Almendralejo (DAWV-SPO)
Photos by Jenny Labanero (DAWV-SPO)

06/10/2023

𝘿𝘼𝙒𝙑 𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙥𝙞𝙫𝙤𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙧𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮’𝙨 𝙡𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙘𝙮 𝙙𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙀𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙡𝙮 𝙒𝙚𝙚𝙠

WESVIARC, Hamungaya, Iloilo City - October 5, 2023 - In a heartwarming celebration of Elderly Filipino Week, the Department of Agriculture Western Visayas (DAWV) retirees were the guests of honor, receiving well-deserved recognition for their invaluable contributions to the agency's continued success.

The event, held at Western Visayas Integrated Agricultural Research Center (WESVIARC) was attended by current and former DA employees who gathered to pay tribute to the retirees. During the program, the Director of the DAWV, Director Dennis R. Arpia, expressed his gratitude and admiration for the retirees, highlighting the pivotal roles they played in shaping the agency's history and accomplishments.

"It is because of our retirees that the Department of Agriculture Western Visayas still stands today. Their dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to our mission have left an indelible mark on this organization," Director Arpia remarked. He went on to express his hope that their legacy would inspire current employees to continue the agency's noble work.

The event's keynote speaker, Dr. Neneth Quinon Pador, delivered a poignant address focusing on the retirees' in embracing their golden years. She emphasized the importance of seeking purpose and spiritual guidance as they embark on this new phase of life.

"Retirement is not the end of your journey but the beginning of a new purpose in life.” Ms. Gonzales stated. "I encourage all retirees to seek God's guidance so that you may discover your remaining purpose. Embrace your age with grace and wisdom, for it is a time for reflection, sharing your knowledge, and leaving a lasting impact on the generations to come."

The celebration incorporated a brief meeting of their association, where they discussed their forthcoming activity and welcoming their new members, zumba, and a sumptuous feast. Retirees were presented with certificates of appreciation, underscoring their enduring significance to the Department of Agriculture Western Visayas and the local community.

The Elderly Filipino Week celebration served as a reminder of the wisdom and experience that retirees bring to society, highlighting the need for their continued involvement and guidance. It was a day of gratitude, reflection, and celebration of lives well-lived, and it reinforced the message that age is not a hindrance to contributing meaningfully to the community and society at large. # # #

Texts by: Chrystal Jane Almendralejo and Photos by: Jehann Pitogo/ DAWV-SPO

27/09/2023

DAWV 4K Program team attended program planning workshop and preparation of FY 2024 Budget Ex*****on Documents (BEDs) held in Development Academy of the Philippines, Tagaytay City.

21/09/2023

DAWV-4K Program team attended 4K Program staff and Ancesteal Domain Representative Training for Rapid Soil Testing and Fertilizer Recommendation held at BSP Baden Powell International Makiling, Los Baños, Laguna from September 18-22, 2023.

This is the 1st collaborative activity of 4K program with Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM). Its objective is to capacitate the staff & IPs to become technically equipped on the said concern.

17/09/2023

DAWV 4K Program 3rd Quarter Meeting conducted in Sibalom, Antique. They have invited Ms Corazon Buala of RAFIS to share her expertise in advance skills presentation techniques in order to enhance the capabilities of all 4K focals both from national govertment agencies and LGUs concerned.

Issues & concerns that were taken up in the previous meeting but not acted were reviewed 1 by 1 and come up with possible recommendations & timeline of actions. 9.15.2023

11/08/2023

As partner agency, DA Western Visayas represented by Ms Carmelita C. Fantilanan, Sr. Agriculturist, IP Desk Officer & DA 4K Program Focal Person attended and presented 4K program accomplishments to the 1st Western Visayas Indigenous Peoples Health Summit 2023 at Punta Villa Resort, Inc., Arevalo, Iloilo City, August 9-11, 2023.

Other agencies present are DOH as the lead, NCIP, DILG, DOLE, DSWD, DepEd, PHIC, USA and the IPs coming from 6 different provinces of western visayas.

DA WV - LOMS

11/11/2023

11/11/2023

11/11/2023

07/11/2023

21/10/2023

20/10/2023

06/10/2023

27/09/2023

21/09/2023

17/09/2023

11/08/2023

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