The Department of Agriculture (DA) High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) in Western Visayas recognized the outstanding efforts of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) with the High Value Crops Achievers Awards held Tuesday, November 19 at Zuri Hotel, Iloilo City.
The award recognizes the AEWs’ dedication to providing agricultural services to farmers and the public that drive economic growth and food security.
The event featured speeches from several key officials. James Earl E. Ogatis, DA-6 Regional Information Officer, and Jonifer B. Frades, Regional HVCDP Focal Person, shared insights on the program’s goals and the significance of AEWs in local agriculture. Ms. Zarlina B. Cuello, Regional Technical Director for Research & Regulations, delivered a message highlighting the importance of innovation in farming while Enrique Dela Cruz, HVCDP National Program Management Office, provided an inspirational address. Additionally, Dr. Ildefonso Toledo, Provincial Agriculturist of Iloilo, and Raul Perez, Provincial Agriculturist of Capiz, expressed their appreciation for the awardees’ efforts.
AEW Awardees
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of awards to the High Value Crops Achievers. The awardees were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the agricultural community, and their efforts to help local farmers improve crop production, enhance agricultural sustainability, and promote value-added activities.
The following individuals were honored as Outstanding Provincial, City, and Municipal Agricultural Extension Workers for High Value Crops:
✅Cecile M. Galimba – Agriculturist, Provincial Office for Agricultural Services, Guimaras
✅Sammy T. Bongo – Agricultural Technologist, Provincial Agriculture Office, Negros Occidental
✅Ismael P. Montiflor – Agricultural Technologist, La Castellana, Negros Occidental
✅Christy E. Enano – Agricultural Technologist, Igbaras, Iloilo
✅Mary Grace C. Alimpuyo – Agricultural Technologist, Jordan, Guimaras
✅Heide V. Occena – Farm Superintendent, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
✅Rogelio V. Villaruel – Farm Worker II, Jamindan, Capiz
✅Ronald F. Trinio – Environment Extension Worker, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental
✅Mary Anne S. Janoya – Agricultural Technologist, Nabas, Aklan
✅John Lene Peniel F. Acanto – Agriculturist II, Pototan, Iloilo
Each recipient received a cash prize of ₱20,000, a plaque, and tokens of appreciation for their contributions to agricultural development in their communities.
The 2024 High Value Crops Achievers Awards celebrated the critical role these AEWs play in fostering agricultural growth across Western Visayas. By empowering farmers with knowledge and resources, AEWs are helping to ensure that high-value crops become more accessible, sustainable, and profitable.
This recognition not only honors individual achievement but also highlights the ongoing efforts of the DA to strengthen the agricultural sector in the region, ensuring a more sustainable and food-secure future.
