Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has designated several Department of Agriculture (DA) officials to lead critical programs aimed at bolstering the country’s rice, livestock, and agricultural sectors.

Glenn Estrada was named Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Executive Director at the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority. Estrada will oversee the regulation of fertilizer and pesticide trade to ensure farmers have access to essential inputs that improve productivity.

Senior Agriculturist Ralph Alan Ceniza has been appointed Deputy Program Director of the National Rice Program. He will help advance government efforts to boost rice production and achieve self-sufficiency in the staple crop.

To address challenges in the livestock industry, such as disease outbreaks and market instability, Dr. Jonathan V. Sabiniano now serves as Program Director of the National Livestock Program. Supporting him is Alvin Paul J. Dirain, the newly designated Deputy Program Director of the same program.

Emerson S. Yago is now the Director-Designate for Rice Clustering and Consolidation under the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program. Yago’s work will focus on enhancing farmer collaboration and promoting modern practices to optimize rice production.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ronnie Ernst A. Duque, currently a Director II at the DA, has been named Officer-in-Charge of the Deputy Executive Director’s office at the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS). He will ensure meat inspection standards meet food safety and export quality requirements.

Finally, Arnold I. Atienza has been appointed Executive Director of the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA). He will lead efforts to revitalize the fiber industry by increasing demand for high-value products like abaca.

These designations underscore DA’s commitment to strengthen key agricultural sectors to support farmers, enhance food security, and drive economic growth, Sec. Tiu Laurel said. ###