The Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) participated in the Food Congress-cum-Investment Forum, which took place from June 28 to June 30, 2023 in Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte.
The forum, with the theme “Yawe sa kalAMboan 2023: Building Green Investments in a Self-Reliant, Transparent, Accountable, and Responsible Good Governance,” coincided with the 88th Araw ng Kolambugan celebration on July 1, 2023.
The primary objective of the three-day event was to ignite economic progress in the region, focusing on providing sustainable livelihood opportunities and establishing Kolambugan as the hub for the agri-aqua industry in Northern Mindanao.
Kolambugan Mayor Allan M. Omamos expressed his enthusiasm about the untapped potential within their vast land and water resources.
“Matagal na po kaming natutulog sa aming mga kayamanan. Hindi namin alam kung paano mapapakinabangan ang aming tubig at lupa. (Our treasure has long been sleeping. We don’t know how to take advantage of our waters and soil),” said Mayor Omamos.
The mayor’s sentiments were shared by many attendees, who believed that unlocking the region’s agricultural and aquatic potential could pave the way for a prosperous future.
Despite these resources, approximately 4,000 residents in the municipality remain unemployed.
Melinda Quinones, the Division Chief, and Charlene Mariquit, the Development Management Officer II of the Partnership Development Division, represented PCAF at the event.
During their presentation, they highlighted the crucial role of Agriculture and Fishery Councils (AFC) in actively engaging the community to support agri-fishery initiatives.
They also discussed the AFC membership requirements and Civil Society Organization (CSO) accreditation processes.
Emphasizing the significance of public-private collaboration, PCAF shared best practices that showcased how the AFCs serve as bridges between communities and policymakers at both local and regional levels.
By establishing these connections, AFCs ensure that the concerns and voices of the community are heard and considered in policy and decision-making processes. |MQ
