DA-10 honors 55 tenured employees for years of government service

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Agriculture – Region 10 (DA-10) formally recognized 55 of its employees with loyalty awards for their commitment and contributions to public service within the agri sector.

Adhering to the Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 6, Series of 2002, which mandates honoring civil servants, the agency, through its Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) committee, held the Loyalty Service Awards ceremony today, December 5, in this city.

The ceremony recognizes civil servants who have rendered continuous and satisfactory service for 10, 35, and 40 years in government service.

Guided by the theme, “DA-10 bringing back the NINE-T: Nurturing Integrity and Nourishing Excellence – Together,” the event encapsulates the organizational values championed by the awardees.

In his congratulatory address, DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan lauded the awardees for their enduring commitment to public service.

“For the loyalty awardees, always aspire to find your value beyond what you are fighting now. Congratulations and thank you very much for your service,” the agri executive said.

The awardees are comprised of technical and administrative officers, specialists, and engineers across multiple divisions, including the Administrative and Finance Division (AFD), Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), Field Operations Division (FOD), Integrated Laboratories Division (ILD), Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division (PMED), Regional Agricultural Engineering Division (RAED), Regulatory Division, Research Division, and the Office of the Regional Director (ORD).

Here are the following awardees:

40 Years:
1. Luz I. Guzman, PhD – Development Management Officer V (FOD)

35 Years:
2. Janet D. Lopez, DVM – Agricultural Center Chief II (FOD)
3. Catalino S. Soriano Jr. – Agricultural Center Chief II (Research)

10 Years:
4. Shella Marie Concepcion D. Abejo – Administrative Officer II (AFD)
5. Karina Molawin E. Andres – Administrative Officer II (AFD)
6. Lester B. Apag, DM – Administrative Officer V (AFD)
7. Juradin H. Cabana, CPA – Accountant III (AFD)
8. Shem S. de Gracia – Administrative Officer V (AFD)
9. Patrick Ian F. Pedarse, CPA – Chief Administrative Officer (AFD)
10. Jaypee R. Pichay, PhD – Administrative Officer IV (AFD)
11. Mary Jane A. Sayson – Administrative Officer I (AFD)
12. Alta L. Viña – Administrative Officer I (AFD)
13. Mae Carmela G. Fabela – Market Specialist III (AMAD)
14. Rosell P. Tuba-on – Supervising Science Research Specialist (Research)
15. Richan D. Lacanaria – Senior Agriculturist (FOD)
16. Mark Anthony D. Lagamon – Agriculturist II (FOD)
17. Kersten S. Pagalan – Agricultural Center Chief III (Research)
18. Engr. Abdulharis P. Paporo – Agricultural Center Chief II (FOD)
19. Jesie S. Virtudez – Agricultural Technician II (FOD)
20. Silvan B. Acas – Laboratory Aide II (ILD)
21. Oryza Kristy B. Baylo, DVM – Veterinarian IV (ILD)
22. Atty. Rachel L. Borres-Thurdis – Chemist II (ILD)
23. Razel Elaine Grace A. Cataluña – Chemist II (ILD)
24. Bensive M. Gabitano – Agriculturist I (ILD)
25. Julesbean Caesar C. Maquiling, DVM – Veterinarian III (Regulatory)
26. Johanna C. Pichay – Chemist III (ILD)
27. Apple Caryl C. Novo – Computer Maintenance Technologist II (PMED)
28. Christian L. Padrones – Information Systems Analyst II (PMED)
29. Engr. Rona M. Quiao – Project Evaluation Officer III (PMED)
30. Engr. Junel W. Ablanque – Engineer IV (RAED)
31. Engr. Mary Ann C. Adella – Engineer III (RAED)
32. Engr. Romil G. Española – Engineer III (RAED)
33. Engr. Liezel D. Sios-e – Engineer II (RAED)
34. Engr. Alden C. Tapio – Engineer III (RAED)
35. Rosalio M. Cocamas Jr. – Science Research Specialist I (ORD)
36. Tito P. Manigos Jr. – Senior Science Research Specialist (ORD)
37. Jocelyn F. Octat – Senior Science Research Specialist (ORD)
38. April Hope E. Panis – Science Research Specialist III (ORD)
39. May Cristine O. Arcojada – Agriculturist II (Regulatory)
40. Rhea Villa R. Chiu, DVM – Veterinarian III (Regulatory)
41. Caren A. Libre – Agriculturist II (Regulatory)
42. Jan D. Melicor – Agriculturist II (Regulatory)
43. Christine Jane L. Quiamco – Agriculturist II (Regulatory)
44. Novie T. Suello – Senior Agriculturist (Regulatory)
45. Maria Teresa C. Cagas – Science Research Specialist I (Research)
46. Jolee D. Develos – Science Research Specialist II (Research)
47. Paulo Miguel A. Diputado – Science Research Specialist II (Research)
48. Samuel C. Natindim, Jr. – Agricultural Center Chief III (Research)
49. Renante E. Oberes – Farm Superintendent III (Research)
50. Marivic L. Paday – Senior Science Research Specialist (Research)
51. Engr. Ronald J. Pasilan – Senior Science Research Specialist (Research)
52. Joel L. Pueblos – Farm Superintendent II (Research)
53. Ailene B. Talara – Science Research Specialist II (Research)
54. Wendelyn T. Toraja – Science Research Specialist II (Research)
55. May Shell E. Tumilap – Senior Science Research Specialist (Research)

The DA-10 remains committed to fostering a culture of excellence and integrity among its personnel to ensure the continued delivery of quality public service within the agri sector.# (BJCE)

Aggie 10 F2C2 prompts rice clusters to adopt B2B agri-marketing</h6

Cagayan de Oro City – The Department Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (Aggie 10) urged rice clusters in Northern Mindanao to adopt business-to-business marketing strategies to foster sustainable growth in rice production and trade.

In the recently concluded Rice Clusters Forum organized by the Aggie 10 Farm and Fishery Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) Program in time with the National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM), leaders of rice farmers’ associations and cooperatives in the region were told to embrace market-first farming system by forging partnership with institutional buyers.

Through the forum the Aggie NorMin F2C2 bridged the rice cluster-leaders and the DA partner government and private partners.

In said forum, the DSWD Region 10 conveyed the salient features of the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Program, through which the DSWD may contract rice clusters in the region to supply rice for its feeding program. Under the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), rice farmers may avail of a livelihood package for rice production and processing to augment their livelihood.

The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC) also presented the financial assistance program offered by the government for individual rice farmers and their associations and cooperatives, as an added financial resource for increased production.

The rice farmers were also apprised on the national and regional rice industry situation by the DA-10 Rice program, highlighting the MASAGANA rice industry development strategy to rev up the country’s rice production – MAtatag (resilience and climate adaptation), Sama-sama (farm clustering and consolidation), GAnado (farmer engagement and motivation), and NApapanahon (digital transformation and timely interventions).

In his message, Aggie 10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan urged rice farmers to shun the use of inorganic farm inputs, stating dependency to such inputs will result in higher cost of rice production. Instead, he called on the rice farmers to transition to rice-duck integrated farming system to mitigate rising inputs’ costs while producing safer rice for local consumption.

To date, the DA-10 F2C2 has organized 89 rice clusters across the 5 provinces of Northern Mindanao. Each cluster is composed of a group of rice farmers tilling an aggregate of 100 hectares rice area, at minimum.

Through the F2C2, the DA pushed for farmers and fishers’ organizations to form a cluster and consolidate their products to achieve economies of scale, strengthen their bargaining power, and gain better market access to scale up their production and income. # (ATT)

DA-10 advances organic agriculture through 1st reg’l sustainable organic food systems conference

BALINGASAG, MISAMIS ORIENTAL – To further strengthen the promotion and adoption of organic agriculture in Northern Mindanao, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), through its Organic Agriculture Program, staged the 1st Regional Sustainable Organic Food Systems on November 25 to 27, in this town.

Anchored on the theme “Creating Synergies to Co-Create Regional Organic Agriculture Development (ROAD) in Northern Mindanao,” the conference highlighted key discussions and thematic sessions focused on integrating organic agriculture into the farming practices of its diverse stakeholders.

A major highlight of the event was the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro and the DA-10 Organic Agriculture Program to co-create sustainable organic family farms. The agreement was formalized by DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan and Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, with OIC-RTD for Operations Viralou L. Tuquib, DVM, MPM, and Mark Anthony C. Lagamon, DA-10 Organic Agriculture Focal Person, as witnesses.

In his message, RED Pacamalan emphasized the need for stronger collaboration and measurable outcomes. “[Let us] make this conference a springboard [to] create a bigger impact in organic agriculture. Let’s plan and outline specific interventions that are vital for DA’s support — those that deliver practical impact.”

He further shared that the DA-10 targets to transform 100 hectares in Balingasag into an organic duck farm, reinforcing the region’s direction toward integrated organic systems.

Organic practitioner Roberto E. Jomen III of Vege-To-Go Plant-Based expressed optimism about expanding the reach of organic agriculture. “I am happy that we are bringing organic agriculture to a wider audience, not only farmers. I hope that next time, we can also include doctors, health practitioners, and nutritionists — those who can help promote organic foods to the masses. Instead of synthetic medicines, let’s advocate for alternative lifestyles through quality organic foods,” he said.

The next Regional Sustainable Organic Food Systems Conference is set to take place in 2026, in Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte.

This initiative supports the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in advancing inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agricultural development, ensuring that communities benefit from healthier food systems and improved livelihood opportunities.# (NQA)

Agri-NorMin joins KADIWA ng Pangulo Expo 2025

INTRAMUROS, MANILA — Aiming to strengthen market linkages and promote locally sourced agri-fishery products, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), participated in the KADIWA ng Pangulo (KNP) Expo 2025 on November 28 to 30 at Foro de Intramuros, here.

The annual expo forms part of the President’s flagship initiative to strengthen food security, expand livelihood opportunities, and support both producers and consumers.

This year’s KNP Expo featured expanded market linkages, innovations in food delivery systems, and the continued promotion of the P20 “Benteng Bigas, Meron Na!” Rice Project under the Rice-for-All Program.

In his message, DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. underscored the importance of the event, stating, “Today, we open the Kadiwa Expo 2025, a flagship platform for affordable food, stronger market linkage, and well-deserved recognition for our food producers — magsasaka, mangingisda, and micro entrepreneurs.” He added, “After the success of last year’s expo, we return with bolder ambition. Sa pagtutulungan, mas mapadali ang daloy ng sariwa at abot-kayang pagkain sa mamimili.”

Representing Northern Mindanao, DA-10 AMAD featured locally sourced products through two participating exhibitors. BALUGTO HOPE Agriculture Cooperative showcased fresh agricultural products, while VjANDEP presented its processed food products from the region.

The participation of DA-10 in the national expo reflected its continued efforts to help local farmers and agripreneurs tap wider markets, in support of the administration’s thrust toward a stronger and more inclusive food system for producers and accessible, quality food for consumers. # (EJLG)

Aggie-10 hosts Be Riceponsible info advocacy contests to wrap 2025 Nat’l Rice Awareness Month

Cagayan de Oro City – To fuel youth involvement in the nation’s campaign for responsible rice consumption, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (Aggie-10) holds Be Riceponsible information advocacy competitions for senior high school students to culminate the 2025 National Rice Awareness Month (NRAM).

Spearheaded by the Aggie-10, through its Regional Agriculture and Fishery Information Section (RAFIS) and Rice Program, participating students in Cagayan de Oro City competed in the NRAM Photo, Reels, and Agri Trivia contests, putting to the test their ingenuity and knowledge in championing the call for responsible rice consumption.

On November 28, winners of the said competitions were lauded as follows:

REELS CONTEST

Winner: “Think Twice, Save Rice”
Cagayan de Oro National High School – Senior High School
(Gian Carlo D. Delastrico, Raymond L. Espinosa, and Queenie Jannah L. Nuñez)
Coach: Earl Vann S. Urbano

2nd Placer: “It’s Not Just a Grain, There’s More to Gain”
Lapasan National High School
(Jessie D. Montano, Angel Trish B. Canque, and Elaiza B. Paguidopon)
Coach: Lucita Mae B. Aguelo

3rd Placer: “Butil”
Lumbia National High School
(Kristine Mae P. Magdadaro, Aira Jane C. Maro, and John Paul D. Meltrilez)
Coach: Mauro M. Mendez

PHOTO CONTEST

Winner: “Grain of Hope, Hand of a Nation”
Janine Claire Q. Villaluna of Lapasan National High School
Coach: Lucita Mae B. Aguelo

2nd Placer: “Butil”
Arnelyn A. Corral of Lumbia National High School
Coach: Mauro M. Mendez

3rd Placer: “Care for Every Grain”
Xander S. Vasquez of PHINMA – Cagayan de Oro College, Senior High School Department
Coach: Najma L. Asum

AGRI TRIVIA CONTEST

Winner:
Gusa Regional Science High School (Nickee T. Dampal, Sabrina G. Curit, and Neeka Ella P. Guillero)
Coach: Jenifer A. Montes

2nd Placer:
Lumbia National High School (Ara Lou P. Poblete, Reah Joy S. Kaki, and Marianne Dennisse E. Rivera)
Coach: Mauro M. Mendez

3rd Placer:
Macabalan National High School (Analy Obenita, Peter John Cantong, and Robemie Paquit Catayoc)
Coach: Maricris N. Makiji

Through the Be Riceponsible info advocacy competitions, the Aggie-10 urges the youth to take an active role in creating awareness on the importance of the rice industry to the nation’s economy, and advocate proactive measures to support Filipino rice farmers.

The Aggie-10 also rolled out regional NRAM information caravan, Rice Farmers Financial Assistance (RFFA) distribution, and the Regional Rice Clusters Forum to highlight the 2025 NRAM.

NRAM is observed every November by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 524, series of 2004.# (ATT/Photo credits: BJCE, MAC)

Agri-NorMin, farmers’ groups join Organic Agriculture Congress

BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL — Aiming to strengthen the region’s adoption of sustainable and market-driven organic farming practices, delegates from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), along with farmers’ groups representatives and organic agriculture practitioners across Northern Mindanao, participated in the 18th National Organic Agriculture Congress (NOAC) on November 18 to 20, this city.

Carrying the theme “Kabuhayang OA, Kinabukasang OK: Halina at Kumita sa Organikong Agrikultura,” this year’s congress highlighted organic agriculture as a growing enterprise that supports livelihood and local economic development.

Organized by the Department of Agriculture – National Organic Agriculture Program (DA-NOAP), the congress served as a national platform for farmers, agripreneurs, policymakers, researchers, and advocates to exchange knowledge, present industry updates, and coordinate efforts to further develop the organic sector.

In her message, Bernadette F. San Juan, CESO II, Director of DA-NOAP, reiterated the agency’s commitment to strengthening the organic agriculture industry through livelihood support, capacity-building, and market development initiatives.

“The DA-NOAP is committed to strengthening this [organic] sector. With programs that provide livelihood projects, capacity-building, support for women and youth in agriculture, and market development, we are laying the groundwork for an organic industry that is not only viable but competitive.”

She further emphasized the significance of the congress theme, noting that organic agriculture must remain both a sustainable practice and a viable source of livelihood.

“Halina at Kumita sa Organikong Agrikultura’ is a call to action. Let us come together, not only to farm organically but to ensure that organic agriculture provides real income, dignity, and resilience to our farmers. When we make organic agriculture profitable, we make it sustainable. And when it is sustainable, we make it a legacy,” San Juan furthered.

During the three-day event, delegates took part in plenary discussions, technical sessions, and exhibitions in organic farming technologies, value-added processing, and market expansion.

The participation of Northern Mindanao representatives reflected the region’s continuing support for national efforts to promote sustainable, inclusive, and competitive organic agriculture. # (EJLG)

DA accelerates efforts to develop Bukidnon Food Hub project to advance Mindanao’s agri sector

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon (November 26, 2025) — The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the provincial government of Bukidnon have sealed a P1.97-billion partnership to build a sprawling food hub, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at modernizing agricultural logistics and strengthening the value chain in Northern Mindanao (NorMin).

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu-Laurel Jr. and Bukidnon Governor Rogelio Neil P. Roque on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Agreement for the development of the Bukidnon Food Hub (BFH) in Manolo Fortich town.

Positioned just outside Cagayan de Oro City, Northern Mindanao’s commercial center, the BFH is designed to give farmers and food producers a direct access to both domestic and export markets. Oro hosts Laguindingan International Airport and the largest seaport in Southern Philippines, making it the region’s logistics gateway.

“For a long time, Mindanao has been regarded as the land of promise. This food hub that we will build in Bukidnon, a rich agricultural center, is a step toward the realization of that promise—not only for Mindanaoans but for the entire nation,” Tiu-Laurel said.

Bukidnon Governor Roque expressed optimism over the project’s potential impact on communities and local agribusinesses.

“We are grateful to our President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the DA for continuing to help rural communities and uplift our local farmers,” the local chief executive said.

Planned for development within a 39-hectare site, the BFH aims to sharpen market linkages, scale up agribusiness operations, expand farmers’ access to credit, boost productivity, and drive efficiency across the supply chain. It is envisioned to consolidate high-value crops and other key commodities from major producing municipalities and channel them through fast, reliable links to nearby ports and airport facilities.

The complex will house a full suite of post-harvest and processing infrastructure, including cold storage and dry warehouses, dryers and dehydrators, an ice plant, and processing centers for corn, coffee, cacao, vegetables, and fruits. A poultry dressing plant, wholesale food market platforms, transport and handling bays, commercial spaces, water systems, standby power, and waste treatment facilities round out the development.

According to Tiu Laurel, the BFH is expected to cut logistics costs, lower post-harvest losses, stabilize supply chains, open new income streams for farmers, and generate jobs. “This project is a game changer— a transformative investment that will strengthen Northern Mindanao’s agricultural competitiveness, support national food security goals, and spur private-sector investments,” he added.

In the same event, the DA-10 ramped up its support to various local government units and farmers cooperatives, associations (FCAs) across the region. This support is materialized through the distribution of Certificate of Commitments, comprised of a hauling truck, a farm tractor, and agri equipment, collectively valued at PhP21.9-million.

Anchored on the current administration’s Philippine Development Plan (PDP) for 2023-2028 to modernize value chain and logistics, the DA, together with the provincial government of Misamis Oriental through Gov. Juliette T. Uy, also signed a MOA for another Food Hub in Claveria town as MisOr’s emerging food basket.#

DA-10 turns over farm tractor to Bantuanon ARBA MPC

LANTAPAN, BUKIDNON – To further strengthen Bukidnon’s corn production chain, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) recently turned over one unit of 4WD farm tractor to the Bantuanon Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Association Multi-Purpose Cooperative (ARBA MPC) here.

Funded under the Agricultural Machinery, Equipment, Facilities, and Infrastructure Support Services (AMEFSS) of the DA-10 Corn Program, the Php 2.9-million tractor is seen to increase farmers’ production capacity and livelihood opportunities.

The said support from the DA is expected to benefit the 275 members of the ARBA MPC who are cultivating 300 hectares of corn and 30 hectares of cassava. The cooperative is now eyeing the expansion of its existing production area with an additional 110 hectares.

ARBA MPC Manager Teresita B. Olemberio expressed her gratitude for the government’s continued assistance, “This is truly a big help to our cooperative. With this kind of support, the coop can generate more income, and our members can also reduce their expenses.”

She further encouraged farmers to actively seek assistance from the government, “I encourage all farmers to approach and seek assistance from our government agencies, especially the DA, which is very willing to help with our needs.”

This initiative aligns with the thrust of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration in advancing inclusive and sustainable agricultural development by strengthening the country’s corn industry. # (NQA)

NorMin young agripreneurs convene to foster collaboration, strengthen market competitiveness

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — To boost the entrepreneurial capacity of young agripreneurs in Northern Mindanao, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD), convened Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) awardees from 2021 to 2025 for the YFC Summit held on November 17 to 18, this city.

The two-day summit provided a collaborative space for business-to-business (B2B) engagements where participants explored partnerships, promoted their products, enhanced their brand identity, and pursued wider market access.

DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan urged the youth to maximize the program not only for enterprise development but also for community impact.

“I hope that as you implement your programs and engage with us, you will also create an impact by increasing the number of young farmers in your community,” he said.

Discussions centered on strengthening brand building and market linkages.

Engr. John Paul C. Yu, IPO field officer of the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) of the Philippines, detailed the key elements of establishing a strong brand, stressing intellectual property protection, including patents, copyrights, and trademarks.

He underscored that understanding one’s brand story, customer experience, and consistent marketing efforts form part in the foundation of a strong brand identity.

Meanwhile, Donnie Marie Plaza Chan, trade promotions officer of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), presented strategies for strengthening market linkages.

She highlighted the value of effective marketing and sustained promotional activities in building customer loyalty and expanding the reach of local agribusinesses.

A key part of the summit was also the election of regional YFC officers who will lead initiatives to support ongoing market linkage, enterprise promotion, and inter-youth collaboration.

The event further solidified regional partnerships among young agripreneurs to cultivate a more competitive, innovative, and resilient agri-enterprise sector in Northern Mindanao.

This initiative also aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s efforts to provide seed capital, training, and business development support for youth-led agribusinesses. # (MAC)

Mantibugao-based farmers’ coop receives PhP2.9-M farm tractor

MANOLO FORTICH, BUKIDNON — The Mantibugao Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Farmers’ Cooperative (MARBFC), which primarily grows corn and cassava, received a PhP2.9-million farm tractor from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) through its Corn Program on November 17 at the New Government Center Grounds, Municipal Hall, Calanawan in Brgy. Tankulan.

Funded under the agency’s Agricultural Machinery, Equipment, Facilities and Infrastructure Program, the four-wheel-drive tractor, equipped with a disc plow, disc harrow, and five-ton trailer, will help MARBFC accelerate land preparation, improve soil conditioning, and enhance production for its corn and cassava farms.

The trailer attachment will also facilitate the transport of inputs, harvested crops, and equipment, reducing labor and transport constraints and allowing the cooperative to provide more efficient mechanization services to both farmer-members and non-members.

DA-10 and the local government of Manolo Fortich said the turnover supports the current administration’s push to modernize agriculture. Machinery like this equips farmers’ cooperatives, associations (FCAs) in Northern Mindanao with essential tools for tilling, plowing, and transporting crops more efficiently.# (JLO/Photo supplied)