Department of Agriculture (DA) Senior Undersecretary Domingo F. Panganiban underscored the tantamount task of the agency’s employees in building a strong and progressive economy during the culmination of the 125th Founding Anniversary celebration of DA.
In his message, Panganiban reminded the DA family to value the task entrusted to them.
“Each time, I have asked that you do more, work harder and better. This year, I will ask of you nothing more than to appreciate the task which the Filipino people have entrusted to you,” he said.
The Senior Usec added that public servants are often exposed to the politicking, backstabbing, dishonesty, and cloakroom machinations of the government, but it’s important that corruption does not taint the integrity of many.
“This Department’s function is of paramount importance to our national life – and what you do here, as public servants, whatever your job might be, is what matters,” he said.
He commended the DA employees for their efforts over the previous years in advancing President Marcos’ food security agenda while addressing the climate change and the after-effects of the pandemic towards the attainment of national economic recovery.
“While our work is not finished, and deep challenges remain, this progress would not have been possible without you. Ang lakas at tatag ng anumang organisasyon ay nasa mga kawani nito. Ang inyong kakayahan, dedikasyon, at pagtutulungan ang nagpapalakas sa DA,” Panganiban said.
For the years to come, the DA senior official is resolute to shift towards modern innovations and technologies to support the agriculture industry, while increasing effectiveness, efficiency, and resilience of the bureaucracy.
“Thank you for your service and sacrifices, and those of your families. Your talents and skills could have taken you many places, but you chose to serve our people and country,” Panganiban said.
“The President is grateful for your enduring perseverance. I share his confidence that, with your continued dedication and leadership, this Department will, as it has for 125 years, serve our country with the utmost integrity and competence,” he added.
Senator Mark A. Villar also recognized the outstanding contributions of the men and women of the Department.
“Let us honor all those who dedicated their lives to this institution. Their passion, hardwork, and perseverance have laid the foundation for our country’s agricultural success story,” Villar said.
In his message, he emphasized the importance of the department and its significant contribution to the country’s economic progress and self-determination.
“This year’s theme embodies the remarkable journey of the Department and its steadfast dedication to serve our country’s agricultural sector. This reflects the strong commitment to continue the work towards abundance in agriculture and a progressive economy,” Villar said.
“For more than a century, the DA has been the forefront of sustainable development, food security, and poverty alleviation. Since its establishment, the collective efforts have been evolved and adjusted in response to the changing needs of the agricultural sector,” he added.
He stressed that education and knowledge sharing are important components to the growth of the agriculture sector.
“It is crucial that we equip our farmers and agricultural workers with the latest development and technology, modern farming techniques and sustainable practices. By doing so, we are able to help them to adopt changing circumstances, overcome challenges, and seize new opportunities,” Villar said.
As the primary support system of the farmers and fisherfolks, he challenged the agency to inspire younger generations to embrace agriculture as a viable and rewarding career choice.
“We must create an environment that nurtures the next generation of farmers, providing with quality education, training programs, and opportunities for growth. It is our duties to recognize their efforts, protect their rights, and provide them with the support they need to thrive,” Villar said. ### (Kristel Joyce Merle, DA-AFID)
