A special meeting of the presidents of the 68 farmers’ associations of Bayambang was held on October 26 at the Saint Vincent Village Clubhouse.

Artemio Buezon, the OIC of the Department of Agriculture, welcomed everyone to the meeting, which was the first one held under the new administration.

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In his opening remarks, Eligio Veloria, President of the Federation of Farmers’ Association of Bayambang, urged his fellow association presidents to raise in the open forum the various problems they had encountered in their respective barangays as well as the programs they wished to have. He also informed the audience that the old DOLE registration of the local farmers’ associations is no longer officially recognized.

In his inspirational message, Alan de Vera, Consultant on Agriculture, reminded his fellow farmers about the high chance of La Nina this year and for the farmers to take caution. In this regard, he said, insurance is important. De Vera further encouraged the farmers to “not hesitate asking the help of the Agriculture Department’s technicians if needed.”

Agricultural Technologist Ricardo I. dela Masa moderated the open forum, which dwelt on topics ranging from the extent of coverage recognized by the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp., farm mechanization as among the thrusts of the new administration, distribution of seeds, SEC registration in Baguio City, and vaccination.

After lunch, Mayor Cezar T. Quiambao greeted the audience and promised support if the farmers would send him a written request asking assistance for organic farming solution. He also promised financial help for the SEC registration of the 65 farmers’ associations that have yet to be registered. (Bayambang PIO/Media Affairs)