CAMIGUIN (PIA) — The local government of Camiguin, through the Provincial Agriculture Office, participated in the National Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Exhibition (NAFTE), held recently in Cagayan de Oro City.
Joining hands with the J&R Mahinog Cacao Producers Group, the province displayed a variety of its local products, including tableya, chocolate, virgin coconut oil, and soy sauce.
Susan Galua, a member of the cacao producers group, highlighted the importance of the exhibition. “Importante kaayo ang exhibit kay dako kaayo ang among ma-improve unya mailhan mi sa among produkto (The exhibit is very important because we can improve a lot and then we will be known for our product),” she said.
Jose Apollo Pacamalan, regional executive director of the Department of Agriculture-10, underscored the importance of the exhibition in fostering connections within the agri-fishery industry. “This event provides a platform for various stakeholders to create linkages in the agri-fishery industry, including the private sector, LGUs, NGOs, research institutions, and our government and development partners,” Pacamalan said.
He also praised the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Agricultural Research for their ongoing commitment and collaboration, which are crucial in addressing numerous challenges faced by the agricultural sector. He noted that these efforts are instrumental in managing research that tackles issues such as climate change, productivity, profitability, environmental protection, sustainability, and malnutrition.
This year’s NAFTE theme, “Makabago at Angkop na Teknolohiya, Tulong sa Patuloy na Pag-unlad ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive to modernize agriculture. This initiative aims to achieve food security, reduce dependency on imports, and lift millions of farmers and fisherfolk out of poverty. It also underscores DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr.’s vision of modernizing the country’s agriculture and fisheries sector to secure food resources.
Pacamalan also emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for innovators and enhancing the participation of women and youth in agriculture. He expressed optimism that more farmers will adopt and access new technologies and knowledge, making farming more efficient, profitable, and sustainable. “Through NAFTE, we will translate into concrete and viable partnerships that will change the lives of the farmers and fisherfolk,” he said.
Aida Chan of the provincial agriculture office said Camiguin’s participation in the exhibition not only showcased the province’s rich agricultural products but also demonstrated the dedication of the local government and agricultural stakeholders to advancing the agri-fishery sector. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
