As the Department of Agriculture (DA) celebrates its 128th anniversary, it renewed its commitment to advancing a more productive, resilient, and inclusive agri-fishery sector, while paying tribute to the thousands of public servants who drive its programs across the country.
Carrying the theme, “Kawani ng Ahensya, Kaagapay ng Magsasaka’t Mangingisda tungo sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas,” this year’s celebration underscores the critical role of DA personnel in delivering services to farmers, fisherfolk, agripreneurs, and other agricultural stakeholders amid increasingly complex challenges facing the sector.
In a message delivered by Undersecretary for High Value Crops Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero during the opening ceremony on June 22, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. praised DA employees for their dedication and perseverance.
“You are the reason why the Department remains active in the face of challenges and why the sector remains vibrant amid disasters,” Tiu Laurel said. “If there is one thing I am truly proud of in the DA, it is not only the capability but also the heart of every employee. Despite criticism and difficulties, service delivery continues—with discipline, direction, and above all, devotion.”
The agriculture chief highlighted what he described as the “Dunong at Abilidad” of officials and employees across the DA family, citing their ability to respond swiftly to crises ranging from typhoons and droughts to budget constraints and other disruptions.
“When problems arise, you bring wisdom. When urgent action is needed, you bring capability,” he said. “Across the country, DA personnel show up early, travel long distances, and endure mud, dust, heat, and rain—not asking ‘Why me?’ but ‘What is the solution?’”
The commitment of the department’s workforce also earned recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. FAO Philippines Country Representative Lionel Henri Valentin Dabaddie commended the DA for sustaining investments in science, innovation, disaster resilience, biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, women and youth empowerment, cultural heritage, and international cooperation.
“Every day, somewhere in the country, your teams are protecting crops and livestock, supporting farmers and fisherfolk, strengthening research and innovation, investing in infrastructure, responding to emergencies, opening market opportunities, and helping ensure that affordable food reaches Filipino families,” Dabaddie said.
He stressed that the strength of Philippine agriculture rests not on any single program or office but on the collective efforts of thousands of public servants working toward a common goal of making the sector more productive, resilient, and globally competitive.
DA Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther E. Bayate, vice chair of the anniversary steering committee, urged employees to remain steadfast in pursuing agricultural modernization and food security.
“As we work toward a Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas, let us continue to work boldly, act courageously, and serve passionately,” Bayate said. “For 128 years, the DA has helped nourish the nation because of your dedication. The next chapter promises to be even more fruitful.”
The week-long anniversary celebration runs until June 25 and features a thanksgiving mass, intercolor sports competitions, interactive exhibits, an agri-products bazaar, and government service booths. Long-serving officials and employees will also be honored during the Loyalty Awards ceremony on June 24.
Officials and employees who have dedicated many years of service to the Department will also be recognized during the Loyalty Awards on June 24.
