Three outstanding agricultural innovators from Central Visayas (CV) were recognized today, May 26, 2025 during the 50th Gawad Saka Awards, held at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) in Pasay City.
Their achievements have placed them among the best agricultural achievers nationwide, qualifying them for the highly anticipated National Gawad Saka Awarding Ceremony at Malacañang Palace in June.
The distinguished awardees from Central Visayas were Jomer Balag of Bohol, recognized as the Outstanding High-Value Crops (Vegetable) Farmer; Manga National High School with Ms. Pablita Cabarles, for Outstanding NUPAP (Micro Garden) and Bayawan City as the Outstanding City Agricultural and Fisheries Council.
Undersecretary Engr. Roger Navarro lauded the Gawad Saka as the Department of Agriculture’s most prestigious recognition. “These awards stand as our symbol of commitment, our recognition of excellence, and a promise,” Usec. Navarro declared in his speech. “A commitment to the vital role of agriculture in driving national progress by recognizing those who lead with passion and purpose. Your success is not just personal, it is a victory for our sector, and for our nation.”
These regional awardees will receive their accolades, together with DA7 Regional Executive Director Angel C. Enriquez, Farmer Director for Central Visayas Grace Cenas, alongside by RAFC Coordinator Liezl Lopez.
In addition to the main awardees, regional farmer directors were also recognized for their invaluable service to the farming community, receiving a reward of P50,000 each.
The nominees were personally awarded by Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu P. Laurel, who presented them with a plaque of appreciation. The rigorous assessment process for the national winners will continue until June, leading up to the final awarding in Malacañang Palace.
Secretary Laurel extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the awardees, inspiring them with his words: “Mabuhay ang mga makabagong Magsasaka at Mangingisda, isulong natin ang modernong agrikultura tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas!” (Long live our modern farmers and fisherfolk, let us promote modern agriculture towards a New Philippines!)
The Gawad Saka is the Department of Agriculture’s annual search for outstanding individuals and groups who have shown excellence in their respective fields, contributing significantly to the country’s agricultural development and food security.