Agriculture plays a crucial role in national development.
This was the gist of the message of Regional Executive Director Angel C. Enriquez of the Department of Agriculture-Central Visayas (DA7) during the 73rd Commencement Exercises of the Bohol Island State University – Clarin Campus, today June 9, 2025, with the theme “Kadaugan: Celebrating Successes, Building Legacies.”
Director Enriquez, who was the keynote speaker of the commencement exercise, highlighted the importance of agriculture, as she emphasized the role and participation of the youth in revitalizing the agri sector.
“In this generation that [somehow] does not give much value and credit to the farming sector [it deserves], thank you for choosing a career in agriculture. Thank you for aiding the declining numbers and aging population of farmers. A promising future awaits you—just keep up with the new normal. If you choose to do farming, do not just be a traditional farmer, but be an agri-entrepreneur.” Enriquez said.
She also shared a personal reflection, revealing that her journey in the agriculture sector was not shaped by an agricultural degree, but by service and dedication.
“I am not a graduate of any agri-related course. By profession, I am an accountant. Yet here I am, serving as the RED of the Department of Agriculture – Central Visayas,” she added.
“This shows that no matter what is your background, you can make meaningful contributions to agriculture and as a public servant.”
The BISU-Clarin campus, which traces its origins as the Clarin School of Fisheries, continues its mission of producing industry-ready graduates.
Of the 392 graduates this year, 47 earned degrees in Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Major in Coastal Resource and Environmental Management (BSES-CRIM)—a testament to the university’s growing emphasis as the institution that continues to nurture the next generation of leaders and innovators in the agri-fishery sector.
