More than 1,500 farmers and fisherfolk in Pangasinan received various forms of assistance through the “Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Tapat Para sa Lahat” initiative on Friday.

Provincial Agriculturist Dalisay Moya said the aid included 6,555 bags of fertilizers distributed to 22 of the province’s 44 municipalities, as well as 34 units of thermochemists, 31 cooler boxes, and 44 sets of gear nets for the fisherfolk.

The Department of Agriculture also provided 1,622 bags of hybrid yellow corn seed, six cultivator units, 10 power sprayers, seven multipliers each for cattle and goats, and four solar-powered irrigation systems.

“We are grateful for the multipurpose cultivator we have received as it will be very useful for our organization,” Virgilio Panlilio, president of the 241-member Gueset Golden Harvest Farmers Association Inc. in Bugallon town, said.

A Kadiwa Agri-Fair was also held to showcase agricultural products from farmers, fisherfolk, and micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) allotted PHP37.5 million for the emergency employment program Tulong Panghanapbuhay Para sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers for select beneficiaries.

DOLE also organized a jobs fair in Calasiao, Alaminos, and Dagupan, offering 10,000 job vacancies.

Meanwhile, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority offered free courses with tool kits and allowances for sector members, and the Department of Trade and Industry provided consultations on its various services.

The Department of Health and the Provincial Health Office were also present to offer medical checkups and consultations.

Assistant Secretary Ana Carmela Remigio, Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon, said the activity was part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s 67th birthday celebration.

“Apart from celebrating his birthday, we applaud President Marcos for his concern and vision for a new Philippines, connected through unity and transparent service for all Filipinos,” Remigio said.

Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III and Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino expressed their gratitude for the assistance provided by the President.

“We greet our beloved President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. a happy birthday. Rest assured that Pangasinan will support his programs, especially the trust and goals of the Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines),” Guico said. (PNA)