Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. led the 2023 Pasasalamat Awarding Ceremony at the Bureau of Soils and Water Management Convention Hall on December 20, 2023. 

This year, the Department of Agriculture honored 18 retirees who devoted the most years of their lives serving the people and the country.

“In that time, they responded to the demands of national service wholeheartedly and without hesitation — each of them with equal measure of loyalty, probity, and fidelity to the national interest,” Sec. Tiu Laurel said.

In his message, the agri chief described the event as a day of renewal and recognition, attesting to the excellence of the honored public servants towards fulfilling the agency’s mandate and the will of the people.

He highlighted the retirees’ dedication even after witnessing the highs and lows of the Department. He also praised their commitment during the darkest days of the pandemic, emphasizing their willingness to fulfill their duties even at the risk of their health and safety. 

“I’m sure our awardees are well aware of the staggering burdens this Department had to shoulder over the years. They carried their share of those burdens during their time, and helped guide both the agency and the agriculture and fisheries sector through some of the grimmest, most challenging moments this nation has had to confront,” Sec. Tiu Laurel said.

He also gave special recognition to Senior Undersecretary Domingo F. Panganiban for serving the Department for 45 years.

“He has since served our nation with singular distinction, intelligence, and honor. He is recognized throughout Southeast Asia for his outstanding professionalism and achievements both in agriculture and in public administration,” he added. 

The 2023 Pasasalamat Awarding Ceremony is an annual gathering organized by the Department to acknowledge achievements, influence, and extend heartfelt farewells to its retirees as they embark on their next journey. ### (Kristel Joyce Merle, DA-AFID)