PASAY CITY, Metro Manila—In continuous recognition to the outstanding efforts and contributions in the agriculture and fisheries sector, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) awarded 20 farmers, researchers, farmers’ associations, and agricultural institutions during the 48th Gawad Saka Awards.

Eleven individuals under the crops, fisheries, livestock, and research categories were given trophies, certificates, and cash prizes. Nine institutions from different parts of the country were also given recognition.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar stressed that the Department will remain devoted to celebrate the achievements of farmers and fishers nationwide as he spoke during the awarding ceremony.

“Today, as we honor the men and women who tirelessly struggled to grow, raise, and nurture the food that we eat, we, at the Department of Agriculture, find it necessary to renew our commitment to championing their causes and advancing their welfare,” Dar remarked.

Moreover, he directed to broaden the objectives of the Search “to inclusive agribusiness approach.”

Representing President Rodrigo Duterte as the guest speaker during the event, Presidential Communications Operation Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar congratulated the awardees. The PCOO Secretary underscored the importance of recognizing the hard work and passion of farmers and fishers in providing food for all Filipinos.

“Tunay na karapat-dapat na bigyan kayo ng parangal sa araw na ito, at sa lahat ng mga araw sa hinaharap, habang kayo ay nagbubungkal ng lupa at nagbabaybay sa dagat,” he said.

Andanar added, “Our President salutes you. Our people applaud your industriousness, your resilience, your strength, and above all, your heroism. Because you dedicate your lives to a cause that is greater than the ordinary—the cause of providing food for all the people.”

DA officials, bureau heads, and directors of the attached agencies of the Department were also present during the event.

Gawad Saka is an annual incentive program of DA, in coordination with ATI, to acknowledge the untiring efforts of the agricultural workers in providing interventions and bridging the path to a sustainable Philippine Agriculture.

Likewise, the program is intended to help encourage the present and future generations to always find ways to expand their capabilities; innovate and integrate new concepts with traditional practices; and continue serving as contributors of food security.

The awarding ceremony was held last October 22 at the Philippine International Convention Center.