DA celebrates 126 years of nurturing Phl agri-fishery sector

The Department of Agriculture (DA), with its vision of achieving Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., continues to implement programs and projects towards food sufficiency and a higher income for farmers and fisherfolk.

This year, DA celebrates its 126th founding anniversary with the theme, “Kagawaran ng Agrikultura, Sama-samang Naglilingkod para sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas.”

The celebration highlights the initiatives of the Department under the leadership of Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. focused on expanding agri-fisheries for increased production, modernizing agriculture and fishery production systems, and developing and improving post-harvest facilities and infrastructure.

Secretary Laurel, during his keynote message during the kick-off ceremony on June 24, 2024, expressed gratitude to the entire staff of the Department for their dedication and commitment to serving farmers and fisherfolk.

“Sa selebrasyong ito, mahalaga na tandaan natin ang malaki nating papel sa pagbuo ng isang matatag at maunlad na bansa. Nais ko pong bigyang pugay ang bawat isa sa inyo sa DA family na nagsilbi at patuloy na nagsisilbi para sa magsasaka, mangingisda, at iba pang stakeholder’s ng agriculture sector,” Sec. Tiu Laurel, Jr. said.

“Palagi niyong tandaan na kayo ang na sa likod ng lahat ng achievements natin dito sa DA. Sa eight months ko sa pagiging DA’s Secretary, personal kong nasaksihan ang dedikasyon at husay niyo sa inyong mga trabaho. Salamat sa inyong lahat at suporta,” he added.

The agri chief urged the DA family to continue doing their best and support his leadership in implementing various projects, particularly the four-year action plan.

As part of the festivities, Secretary Tiu Laurel, Undersecretary Allan Q. Umali and Assistant Secretary Allan Kristopher Anarna presented loyalty awards to personnel who have been in public service for 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years on June 26.

“We see and appreciate the things that you do for the Department and for our clients. Thank you for building the foundation for DA’s successful delivery of its programs, projects, services, activities, and services,”