Outstanding farmers, fisherfolk recognized
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Outstanding farmers, fisherfolk and coastal communities were recognized recently during the “Gawad Saka 2017” and “Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan 2017” rites at Rizal Hall, Malacañang Palace.
President Rodrigo Duterte led the recognition of the outstanding farmers and fisherfolk for the “Gawad Saka,” an award given by Department of Agriculture (DA) to recognize livestock raisers and farmers’and fisherfolk’groups who have excelled and made significant contributions in enhancing the development of the agriculture and fishery sectors in their respective communities and in the country.
Meanwhile, the Malinis and Masaganang Karagatan (MMK) program by the DA-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources awarding coastal municipalities for their efforts in protecting and conserving marine environments.
The MMK general criteria includes the absence of illegal fishing and observance of fishing closed season; establishment of protected marine sanctuary; clean coastal waters without domestic and industrial wastes; and effective mangrove protection and rehabilitation program.
In his message, Duterte recognized the vital role and significant contributions of the awardees towards the advancement of the agriculture and fishery sectors.
“Today, we reiterate [their] importance in [our] collective efforts to build a stronger future for the Philippine agri-fishery sector by paying tribute to the individuals who have made impactful contributions in driving the continued advancement of the industry. This year’s awardees have contributed greatly towards the development of the Philippine agricultural and fisheries industry. Their determination, leadership and willingness to adopt new and appropriate technologies and practices have paved the way for our future progress. It is my hope that the men, women and organizations we honor today will continue to embody the ingenuity, passion and concern for country in all of their undertakings,” he said.
The President also encouraged the DA to continue on giving such awards to outstanding farmers and fisherfolk who have showed exemplary performance on their respective fields.
“This ceremony is but a simple token of our appreciation for their valuable work. But it is my hope that the recognition being given to you today would inspire you and your fellow farmers and fisherfolk to continue exploring new ways to further improve the ever-evolving agrarian and fishery sector. May the Department of Agriculture and its partners continue the search for and recognition of the outstanding farmers and fisherfolks,” added Duterte.
Under the MMK 2017, Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental was awarded as grand winner; Palompon, Leyte as first runner up; and Claveria, Cagayan as second runner up.
Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said that the grand winner will receive P30 million worth of livelihood funds; the first runner up P18 million; and the second runner up P10 million. Cortes, Surigao del Sur, the MMK Hall of Fame awardee, will also receive P30 million.