At least 80 agriculturists from the Department of Agriculture – Cordillera (DA-CAR) participated in the 4th Philippine Association of Agriculturists – CAR (PAA-CAR) Chapter Regional Convention in a bid to gain new perspectives on agricultural technologies, innovative approaches, and agricultural strategies. This was held on March 4-6, 2025 at the Benguet Sports Complex, Wangal, La Trinidad, Benguet.
With the theme “Enhancing Professional Agriculturists Towards a Strong and Sustainable Agriculture in the Cordillera Administrative Region”, this activity allows the DA-CAR’s agriculturists to play a crucial role in improving the implementation of the agency’s programs, projects, and initiatives. Furthermore, the convention provides a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and inspiration, offering new opportunities, pioneering innovations, and a unified vision for the future of agriculture.
There are 491 participants from CAR and other regions who joined in the convention, coming from various national line agencies and bureaus, state universities and colleges, and local government units.
The three-day convention covered topics in agricultural science, crop production and management, disaster and climate risk assessment and management, agricultural technologies, agricultural programs, urban agriculture, intellectual property rights, and best practices on agriculture, where nine (9) of the topics were discussed by resource speakers from DA-CAR.
Updates on Philippine Agriculturist Bill, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Agriculture, and Philippine Extension and Advisory Services Network (PhilEASNet), Anti-illicit counterfeit against fake hybrid corn seeds, and Corporate Social Responsibility of PAA and its role as Professional Regulation Commission-Career Progression and Specialization Program private sector representative were also presented.
In her welcome remarks, Benguet Provincial Agriculturist Delinia Juan highlighted the purpose of the gathering: celebrating collective efforts to promote innovation, sustainability, and resilience in agriculture while exchanging knowledge, exploring new strategies, and strengthening networks amidst climate change, technical advancements, and evolving market demands.
To inspire the participants, DA-CAR Regional Technical Director for Research, Regulations and Integrated Laboratory Dr. Arlene M. Sagayo expressed her gratitude to the unwavering efforts of the agriculturists in the country, underscoring their roles in strengthening the agriculture sector in ensuring food security in the country. “This event serves as a testament to your unwavering commitment to professional excellence, innovation, and sustainability in the field of agriculture. The PAA-CAR Chapter has continuously provided opportunities for professional agriculturists to enhance their expertise and adapt in evolving demands of the agriculture sector,” she stated.
DA-CAR Regional Executive Director Atty. Jennilyn M. Dawayan also delivered an inspiring message via video recording, emphasizing the vital role of PAA-CAR in enhancing the capabilities of professional agriculturists across the region, empowering them with knowledge, insights, and the latest advancement in agricultural research, further strengthening the agricultural sector’s role in the nation’s food security. “Our professionals are key players in navigating the complexities of sustainable farming in the face of climate change, market pressures, and the ever-evolving landscape of agricultural technology. Through their leadership, the Cordillera region has become a beacon for sustainable agriculture, setting an example for other regions to follow,” RED Dawayan stated.
PAA National Office President Fernando Sanchez, Jr. echoed this statement, adding that the agriculturists stand at the vantage point to lead the way in sustainable farming practices and effective natural resources management. “Through the integration of smart, digital, and precise agricultural practices, we can ensure food and nutrition security for the generations to come. But to truly make an impact, we must partner with the community and encourage participation from various stakeholders in the agriculture sector for a united vision,” he expressed.
On the other hand, newly-elected PAA-CAR Chapter officers also took oath of office. The oath taking ceremony was led by PAA President Sanchez.