Cagayan de Oro City, July 21 – Sixteen employees from the Department of Agriculture – Northern Mindanao (DA-RFO 10) have taken their oath after their appointments and promotions were issued, in a simultaneous ceremony, held at the agency compound and virtually, in one of its research stations in Claveria, Misamis Oriental.

The oathtaking was administered by DA-RFO 10 Regional Executive Director Carlene C. Collado, wherein 13 newly promoted, 1 re-employed and 2 newly appointed with Salary Grades (SG) 4 to 24 took part in the simple rites.

Included in the newly promoted roster are Pedro U. Bergado, Jr. (Engineer IV, SG 24); Lorena V. Duna (Supervising Science Research Specialist, SG 22); Berly F. Tatoy (Agricultural Center Chief III, SG 22); Catalino S. Soriano, Jr. (Agricultural Center Chief III, SG 22); Cherlie A. Simene (Senior Science Research Specialist, SG 19); Willie D. Nacalaban (Senior Science Research Specialist, SG 19); and Lucille T. Minguez (Senior Science Research Specialist, SG 19).

Also rounding up the list are Joel J. Gabo (Senior Science Research Specialist, SG 19); Maridith A. Flores (Senior Science Research Specialist, SG 19); Betty G. Betonio (Science Research Specialist II, SG 16); Albert R. Adaptar (Engineer II, SG 16); Carol Christine C. Allanic (Engineer II, SG 16); and Maria Christine G. Cabillo (Engineer II, SG 16).

Meanwhile, Ronald M. Orbeta (Engineer II, SG 16) is re-employed while Bryan R. Cubita (Engineer II, SG 16); and Elena B. Sta. Cruz (Science Aide IV, SG 4) are newly appointed.

In his message, Dir. Collado emphasized that the oathtaking serves as a milestone for DA-10, saying that amid the 15-year moratorium in the filling-up of positions and the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, the department persevered, resulting to the appointments and promotions of agency personnel.

“Based on the records of the Human Resource Management Section starting October 2016, we have already appointed and promoted a total of 99 employees,” Collado remarked, adding that since taking helm of DA-10, such feat was realized with help from the agency’s Placement and Selection Board (PSB).

Addressing the promoted and entrant employees, he expressed, that they have earned it with their exerted efforts, and similarly, challenging them to assume increased responsibilities and even leading their respective teams for the newly appointed and senior officials, respectively.

“Prove that you are worthy, that you are capable of doing more. Show more interest and sincerity in your functions because we are considered frontliners, and we should implement our project as desired and planned, as funds unutilized will be services undelivered,” the agency head further challenged.

As the department continues to operate under the new normal, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Collado reminded them to also put premium their health.

“In the conduct of the performance of our duties and responsibilities, we should always see to it our safety and the safety of our personnel, as well,” the agri-executive underscored.

Also present to witness the event were Personnel and Selection Board Chair and Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Carmelita T. Bajarla, and joined by the division and section chiefs of the different operating units. #