Nearly 500 farmers and fisherfolk from Surigao del Norte gathered Thursday for an Information Caravan and Post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) Forum 2024, showcasing government programs and services supporting agriculture and fisheries in the province.

Organized by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Region 13 (Caraga), the event carried the theme, “Masaganang Agrikultura tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas.” The forum shared updates on agricultural technologies and highlighted programs under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration.

Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers, PIA Deputy Director General Adolfo Ares Gutierrez, and DA-13 Regional Director Arlan Mangelen led the activity.

Arnaldo, a 60-year-old fisherman from Barangay Sabang, Surigao City expressed gratitude for receiving a fiberglass motorized banca from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) last year.

“I joined the forum to learn more about fishing technologies and inquire about government programs for the fishery sector,” he said.

Felipe, a 48-year-old farmer from Mainit town, shared similar sentiments, thanking President Marcos for the assistance under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families (PAFFF) program. “I want to learn more about vegetable farming. I cannot rely solely on corn production and have areas I can develop for vegetable crops,” Felipe said.

Governor Barbers reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to agriculture as part of its 10-point agenda, prioritizing food security and sufficiency. He highlighted the success of the provincial “Bagsakan Center,” which ensures residents directly benefit from local farmers’ and fishers’ produce.

Mangelen encouraged attendees to join DA-accredited associations and cooperatives to expedite access to government support. “The accreditation process ensures faster delivery of services for farmers and fisherfolk,” he said.

Gutierrez noted that Caraga was chosen as a host region for post-SONA activities, emphasizing President Marcos’ focus on agricultural and fishery development in Mindanao. “The PIA’s mandate is to reach grassroots communities to amplify government programs and policies,” he said.

The forum reinforced the administration’s commitment to empowering agriculture and fishery sectors through innovative technologies and accessible services. (PNA)