Concepcion, Iloilo’s ‘Pagbalay Festival’ strengthens food security efforts and farmer empowerment

Aiming to foster agricultural growth in Concepcion, Iloilo, the annual “Pagbalay Festival” bring together around 100 farmers, fishers, and animal raisers on the second day of the celebration on March 13. Dubbed “Adlaw sang Paghimakas,” the event served as a venue to disseminate updates on the Department of Agriculture’s initiatives aimed at boosting the municipality’s food security efforts.

During the event, Municipal Administrator Jimmy Celestial, standing in for Mayor Milliard Villanueva, lauded the significant contributions of various farmers’ organizations and entrepreneurs to the local economy. He underscored their crucial role in fostering the town’s economic growth.

“The ‘Adlaw sang Paghimakas’ represents a celebration of our farmers and their essential role in our community’s progress. Their unwavering dedication significantly pushes our economic development,” the Municipal Administrator stated.

Meanwhile, DA-WV Regional Information Officer James Earl Ogatis expressed optimism on the impact of DA interventions. He also emphasized the commitment of the DA-Western Visayas in bringing its services nearer to farmers, ensuring that their needs are addressed. 

This yearly celebration is a collaborative effort among stakeholders, including the Local Government Unit, National Agencies, and Non-Government Agencies, united to tackle challenges and harmonize programs in support of community food security and sufficiency.

Participating farmers received assorted vegetable seeds, IEC materials, as well as cacao and jackfruit seedlings, alongside essential farm tools like spades, hoes, and rakes. These resources aimed at improving agricultural activities and promote sustainable livelihoods among farmers. #Texts by CLauresta & Photos by AMTabura/DA-RAFIS 6