The Department of Agriculture (DA) vowed to promote efficient water management while ensuring universal access to clean and sustainable water resources in the face of climate change during the culmination of World Food Day celebration held on October 16, 2023, at the Liwasang Aurora Stage, Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City.
“This year’s theme “Water is Life. Water is Food. Leave No One Behind” speaks well of the importance of water as a food resource and as a vital component in the productive life of our people, including the farmers and fishers,” said His Excellency and DA Secretary President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., in a video message played during the event.
Water has consistently held significant value in agriculture, serving as a fundamental element for various agricultural processes, such as tending to crops and livestock. It also helps maintain soil moisture levels, preventing soil erosion and degradation.
In preparation for the possible impacts of El Niño, the DA explained its water management initiatives to address this challenge for a climate-resilient country.
“The DA, along with its regional field offices, bureaus, and attached agencies and corporations, is working double time to address the possible impact of El Niño. These include advancing irrigation projects, promoting sustainable farming methods like aquaponics and hydroponics, enhancing the protection and management of fish culture and capture practices, and advocating for fertigation and drip irrigation techniques,” DA Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban underscored in his message delivered by Undersecretary Mercedita Sombilla.
Echoing DA’s statement, officials from the United Nations (UN), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN, and the World Food Programme, and other guests underscored the essence of water in the production of safe food products.
Celebrated every year, World Food Day strives to raise global consciousness about hunger and inspire individuals to engage in efforts that enhance access to nutritious food, promote sustainable farming, and reduce food wastage. ### (Ira Y. Cruz, DA-AFID)
