Coordination Meeting in Antique highlights vital role of agri communicators’ in boosting the sector

The Coordination Meeting of Regional Information Officers (RIOs) and the Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division (AFID) Central Office, hosted by the Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas (DA-WV) from August 13-16, 2024, in Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique, underscored the crucial role of regional communicators in driving agricultural advancement.

 DA Spokesperson, Asst. Secretary Arnel V. De Mesa, CESO III, convening via virtual platform, lauded the contributions of AFID and RIOs nationwide. He recognized their ongoing efforts with programs like “Kapehan sa Bagong Pilipinas” and “Usapang Agrikultura.” In addition, ASec. De Mesa conveyed the President’s gratitude to the information officers, highlighting the government’s exclusive role in these endeavors. 

He also mentioned DA’s directive for all Regional Field Offices to actively participate in the “Usapang Agrikultura” radio program. This initiative aims to provide farmers and fishers with essential guidance and up-to-date information on various agricultural topics, including current issues, best practices, and training opportunities, among others.

On the other hand, DA-WV Regional Executive Director Dennis Arpia in his message outlined a new direction for regional communicators. Emphasizing the need for updated methods, Arpia urged the discontinuation of outdated tools in favor of more engaging and audience-focused messaging. Also, Director Arpia stressed the importance of tailoring communication to meet the needs of the target audience, using social media effectively, and adapting narrative lengths for various platforms. He highlighted the necessity for agencies to prove their relevance by becoming indispensable and ensuring their communication strategies yield positive outcomes. The Director also encouraged the inclusion of younger team members who are proficient at navigating modern digital communications.

The meeting addressed concerns and shared best practices among regional information officers, particularly regarding the “Usapang Agrikultura” radio program and Information Caravan. Discussions also included the proposed RAFIS upgrade, focusing on its potential structure and personnel needs.

Antique Vice-Governor Edgar Denosta, DA-WV Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer (APCO) for Antique Sonie Guanco, Provincial Agriculture Consultant Fernando Corvera, and Provincial Agriculturist Nicolasito Calawag graced the event, emphasizing the significance that agricultural information officers play in advancing the sector’s development. # # (Texts & Photos by: MSSubang / GMCordova & FLauresta/DA-RAFIS 6)