The Antique Provincial Board requested the institutionalization of the Agricultural and Fishery Council (AFC) as an advisory body and its inclusion as a regular member of the provincial and local development councils (P/LDCs).

The provincial board passed a resolution authored by Vice Governor Edgar Denosta addressed to Governor Rhodora Cadiao, stating the request during its regular session on Monday.

Its institutionalization as an advisory body will ensure that priorities of farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders are included in the local planning, programming, and budgeting, Board Member Mayella Mae Plameras-Ladislao, co-sponsor of the resolution, said.

“Joint Memorandum Circular Number 1, series of 2016 issued by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) highlights the importance of AFC participation in fostering transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in implementing agriculture and fishery-related programs and projects,” part of the resolution said.

The institutionalization strengthens partnerships with the local government units (LGUs) and ensures the prioritization of the agriculture and fishery concerns, contributing to poverty reduction, sustainable development, and food security in Antique, she added.

Ladislao said Governor Rhodora Cadiao has been a staunch advocate for empowering the agriculture and fishery sectors, and recognizes their vital role in the province’s socio-economic development.

“It is hereby being requested from the provincial government to allocate sufficient funds in the annual budget to support AFC operations, including administrative expenses, capacity building activities, logistical support, and monitoring and evaluation activities,” Ladislao said.

The DILG was also requested to provide technical guidance and assistance to AFC in governance-related matters. (PNA)