Outstanding AEWs honored at 2024 High Value Crops Achievers Awards

The Department of Agriculture Western Visayas (DA-WV) and its local government partners celebrated the exemplary performance of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) during the 2024 High-Value Crops (HVC) Achievers Awards ceremony held on November 19, 2024, at Zuri Hotel, Iloilo City.

This event recognized ten AEWs from various provinces and municipalities across Western Visayas for their outstanding contributions to the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP). These honorees were commended for their dedication in delivering technical assistance, monitoring programs and projects, and fostering sustainable growth in high-value crop production.

DA-WV Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Zarlina Cuello said that the Achievers Awards serves as a first step in encouraging innovation, collaboration, and growth within the high-value crops sector in the region. She added that the award is not just about recognition, but about motivating everyone to think creatively and explore new ways to expand and improve high value commercial crops production in the region.

“The landscape of innovation, technology and creativity is within you. And we at the DA are always there to assist and to work with you for a further collaboration and further opportunity and further branding for DA agriculture and fisheries,” highlighted RTD Cuello.

Meanwhile, HVCDP National Program Management Office (NPMO) Project Development Officer IV and National Coffee Coordinator Enrique Dela Cruz lauded the outstanding AEWs in the region for their vital role in empowering farmers and fisherfolks at the grassroots level. He said their efforts ensure the government’s connection with these vital sectors, as they are the ones who are in touch with the farmers on a daily basis.

“Without you, the government would disconnect with the farmers, who are the most important members of our sectors. You’re the ones in touch with them daily, and we cannot do our work without you. This awarding ceremony is a tribute to your dedication and belief in what you do,” Dela Cruz emphasized.

The awardees, evaluated through a selection process, demonstrated exceptional performance in agricultural extension work. The process included nomination reviews, reference checks, field visits, and interviews to ensure their contributions were thoroughly validated.

This year’s Outstanding AEWs are:

1. Cecile M. Galimba – Agriculturist I, Provincial Office for Agricultural Services, Guimaras
2. Sammy T. Bongo – Agricultural Technologist, Provincial Agriculture Office, Negros Occidental
3. Ismael P. Montiflor – Agricultural Technologist, La Castellana, Negros Occidental
4. Christy E. Enano – Agricultural Technologist, Igbaras, Iloilo
5. Mary Grace C. Alimpuyo – Agricultural Technologist, Jordan, Guimaras
6. Heide V. Occeña – Farm Superintendent, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
7. Rogelio V. Villaruel – Farm Worker II, Jamindan, Capiz
8. Ronald F. Trinio – Environment Extension Worker, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental
9. Mary Anne S. Janoya – Agricultural Technologist, Nabas, Aklan
10. John Lene Peniel F. Acanto – Agriculturist II, Pototan, Iloilo

Each awardee received a plaque of recognition and a cash prize of ₱20,000.

The event underscored the strong partnership between the DA and local government units (LGUs) in implementing agricultural programs aimed at uplifting farmers’ livelihoods. It also encouraged AEWs to sustain their commitment and strengthen their support for high-value crop farmers.

“Through these awards, we aim to inspire a higher standard of service and reinforce our collaboration with LGUs for the continuous development of the HVC industry,” said DA-WV High-Value Crops Development Program Focal Person Jonifer Frades.

One of the 2024 outstanding municipal AEWs, Ismael Montiflor from La Castellana, Negros Occidental, shared a testimony.

“For us AEWs, this award is not just a source of motivation. It represents the legacy we leave for our farmers. We create a legacy for them because it feels good knowing that we’ve made a difference in their lives through the technologies and interventions we bring from the government,” Montiflor remarked.

With their notable achievements, the awardees exemplify the DA’s vision of a thriving agricultural sector driven by dedicated professionals who serve as catalysts for positive change.

Iloilo Provincial Agriculturist Ildefonso Toledo and Acting Provincial Agriculturist Raoul Perez also expressed their support for the awardees and the development of the high-value crops industry in the region. #  Text by: MSSubang/DA-RAFIS 6 & Photos by SMHToreno & CFLauresta/DA-RAFIS 6