The Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF)’s consultative bodies took center stage as they were recognized for their leadership and contributions during the 50th Gawad Saka: Parangal sa mga Natatanging Magsasaka at Mangingisda and the 2025 National Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month (NFFM) celebration held on May 26, 2025 at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) in Pasay City.
The Agricultural and Fishery Councils (AFCs) were honored as national finalists under the Gawad Saka Program, while the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council (RAFC) Chairpersons were recognized for their service as Farmer Regional Executive Directors as part of the NFFM observance.
AFCs Recognized for Local Impact, Governance, and Sectoral Advocacy
The Gawad Saka awards recognized the efforts of outstanding AFCs across the country whose work in local agri-fisheries governance has contributed to policy formulation, program implementation, and sustainable community development. While the final national winners will be determined by June 2025, the following AFCs were recognized as national finalists:
Benguet Provincial AFC – For adopting the swine dispersal project supported by the Provincial Government of Benguet to restore hog production in the province.
Nueva Ecija Provincial AFC – For advocating mass trapping as a biological control measure against the onion army worm, pushing for the establishment of livestock and poultry committees in all barangays, and promoting the display of soil fertility maps to support informed farming practices.
Albay Provincial AFC – For initiating a mango reforestation program through Tupad beneficiaries and passing a resolution granting ASF-affected livestock farmers access to rice, financial aid, and livelihood training.
Dimasalang, Masbate Municipal AFC – For recommending the implementation of a two-month closed season (February to March) for specific fishing gears within municipal waters to promote sustainable fisheries management.
Bayawan City, Negros Oriental AFC – Cited for its continued support and engagement in local agri-fishery programs and initiatives.
These AFCs reflect the strength of local consultation and participation in shaping responsive and community-driven agri-fisheries development.
RAFC Chairpersons Honored Through Farmer-Director Program
As part of the NFFM 2025 celebration, the DA recognized RAFC Chairpersons who served as Farmer-Regional Executive Directors through a special program that allows farmer-leaders to temporarily lead DA Regional Field Offices.
This initiative strengthens the DA’s commitment to participatory governance by empowering farmer-leaders to bring their grassroots knowledge into regional decision-making processes.
PCAF Executive Director Bernadette De Los Santos emphasized the spirit of shared leadership: “The Farmer-Director Program stands as a powerful symbol of this enduring partnership—reinforcing the government’s commitment to a more inclusive, responsive, and effective approach to agricultural development.”
RAFC Eastern Visayas Chairperson Engr. Miguel Pedroso, one of the honorees, said: “This program proves that true governance is participatory – that those who have walked the furrows of the land know what it takes to till progress from policy.”
A total of 101 national finalists were recognized during the event for their outstanding contributions to the agriculture and fisheries sector. Now in its 50th year, Gawad Saka remains the Department of Agriculture’s highest honor for individuals and institutions that exemplify innovation and excellence in service. The celebration of the 50th Gawad Saka, alongside the 2025 National Farmers and Fisherfolk Month (NFFM), highlights the DA’s enduring commitment to honoring and empowering its partners in advancing Philippine agriculture and fisheries. | Bernard Masa
