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,” Usec. Umali, who chaired the 126th DA Anniversary Committee meeting, addressed all staff and officials of the Department.
On behalf of the loyalty awardees, DA Budget Division Chief Sylvia Rellosa, who celebrated her 40 years in government service, imparted advice to the next generation on how to make the most out of their experience as public servants.
“Success is not just about reaching your goals but about loving what you do and persevering through challenges. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow and remember that your attitude and dedication will define your path. Stay positive, remain resilient, and don’t be afraid to seek guidance from those around you. Believe in yourself, support each other, and always aim to be the best version of yourself. The future is bright and it’s yours to shape,” she shared.
On June 23, 1898—just 11 days after the proclamation of the Philippine independence—the then Department of Agriculture and Manufacturing became one of the first government agencies that was established under the First Philippine Republic under the administration of President Emilio F. Aguinaldo.
After a series of renaming and restructuring throughout its 126 years of existence, the DA solidified itself as the primary government agency for the promotion of agricultural development in the Philippines by formulating, implementing, and evaluating data-driven policy framework, public investments, and support services for both domestic and export-oriented agri-fishery-based businesses. ### (Kristel Joyce L. Merle and Krystelle Ymari A. Vergara, DA-AFID)
