Geared to ensure food and feeds self-sufficiency in corn and cassava as well as guaranteeing the crops produced are safe and of superior quality, the Department of Agriculture has been conducting National Corn and Cassava Achievers Awards.

This annual search intended for the Local Government Units (LGUs), Farmers and Cluster Organizations aims to recognize those who carry out exceptional performance in the implementation of agricultural programs specifically in the promotion and development of corn and cassava. Likewise, it also aims to boost the morale and motivate the farmers, organization, extension workers and LGUs to work hard and be a drive force for agricultural development.

However, for almost five years of implementation, there is a need to review and revise the guidelines and criteria so that the ultimate goal of the awards is met.

Thus, last February 18 – 22, 2018, Technical Working Group from different Department of Agriculture bureaus and attached agencies convened to review and revise the existing guidelines of the awards incorporating issues and concerns during desk evaluations, field validations and the awarding ceremonies.

The revision of guidelines on National Quality Corn Achievers Award was spearheaded by Dr. Edralina P. Serrano, while Dr. Andrea B. Inocensio of BPI on Cassava Cluster Management and Excellence Award and Cornucopia Award by Dr. Candido B. Damo.

Also, Mr. Manuel M. Dimalaluan of ATI presented and discussed the monitoring tool to be used for the monitoring and evaluation of the awarded projects.

The said workshop was held at Vencio’s Garden and Hotel, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.