27/06/2025
TACLOBAN CITY — With the theme “Makabagong Magsasaka at Mangingisda: Katuwang ang AFC sa Pagsulong ng Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas,” the Agricultural and Fishery Council of Eastern Visayas (AFC8) successfully held its 1st Regional Stakeholders Consultation Workshop at Madison Hotel and Restaurant, Manlurip, Tacloban City.
The two-day workshop gathered over 70 participants including RAFC sectoral chairpersons, PAFC and MAFC representatives, AFC Coordinators from the six provinces, personnel from DA-RFO VIII and PCAF, and distinguished guest speakers. The event served as a vital venue for sharing insights, strengthening partnerships, and formulating key policy directions for the region’s agriculture and fisheries sector.
Dr. Jenny Lyn R. Almeria, DA-Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations, warmly welcomed the delegates and expressed her closeness to the AFCs, noting that her heart remains with the Council as a former RAFC Coordinator herself. The Keynote Message was delivered by Mr. Julius Ceasar R. Caballes, Chief of BFAR’s Fisheries Production and Support Services Division, who commended the AFCs’ grassroots leadership and advocacy.
Though PCAF Executive Director Bernadette B. de los Santos could not attend in person, she extended her heartfelt appreciation to the AFCs through a recorded video message, emphasizing their vital role in advancing participatory governance in agriculture and fisheries.
The thematic discussions focused on three timely and relevant topics: “Climate-Resilient Agriculture and Fisheries: Building Adaptive Communities” was presented by Ms. Regine Delmo of DA-RFO VIII, who shared strategies for addressing climate-related challenges at the community level; “Sustainable Livelihood Programs for Marginalized Farmers and Fishers” by Ms. Maria Christina Manicani of DSWD VIII highlighted accessible livelihood support programs and inter-agency collaboration; and “Empowering the Youth and Women in Agriculture and Fisheries” by Ms. Hazel Grace Taganas, Center Director of ATI-RTC 8, underscored inclusive development by building capacities and creating opportunities for women and the youth in the agri-fishery value chain. These sessions provided both technical and inspirational takeaways to guide AFCs in grassroots implementation.
Adding inspiration to the technical sessions were two powerful success stories from within the region. Ms. Sarah C. Dizor, a Young Farmers Challenge 2022 National Finalist, recounted her journey as a young agri-preneur navigating the industry with determination and innovation. Meanwhile, Ms. Jovita D. Conales, Manager of BENAPRIMCO, Merida, Leyte, shared her experience through a presentation titled “Her Story: Leading a Cooperative, Transforming Lives,” highlighting her role as a woman leader in rural development and cooperative success.
The workshop culminated in the presentation of 30 resolutions, thoughtfully crafted by sectoral and provincial breakout groups during the group workshop sessions. These resolutions reflect the collective voice and policy recommendations of the region's AFCs, tackling issues on market access, youth and women engagement, climate adaptation, production support, and more. These will be elevated to PCAF and relevant government agencies for policy consideration and action.
Cultural pride and community spirit were also highlighted with a dynamic intermission number by the Buyogan Festival Dancers of Abuyog, Leyte. The success of the event was made possible through the volunteerism and contributions of various AFCs, partner LGUs, and the unwavering passion of all participants toward building a more sustainable and inclusive agricultural and fisheries sector in Eastern Visayas.
Padayon, AFC! 🌾
