Recognition plaques were awarded to thirteen national finalists from the Bicol Region during the 50th Gawad Saka Parangal sa mga Natatanging Magsasaka at Mangingisda on May 26, 2025, at the Philippine Trade Training Center.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel honored 101 national finalists across major awards and sub-categories.
DA Bicol Regional Executive Director Rodel P. Tornilla and Farmer Regional Executive Director Claudia Esmeralda Honrado led the Bicol delegation. Local governments, cooperatives, fishermen, farmers, and organizations were among the honorees.
The Gawad Saka resumes its activities after a pandemic break, signifying continued support for agriculture.
Bicol finalists include: Outstanding Communal Irrigation System – San Agustin – San Ramon Agrarian Reform Farmers Cooperative; Outstanding Sugarcane Farmer – Edwin O. Raquitico; Outstanding PAFC – PAFC Albay; Outstanding MAFC – MAFC Dimasalang; Outstanding MLGU – LGU of Polangui; Outstanding CLGU – LGU of Ligao City; Outstanding Agri Entrepreneur (Medium) – J. Emmanuel Pastries, owned by Joseph and Maria Lydia Lomibao; Outstanding Farm Family – Mr. and Mrs. Jose Obligacion and Family; Outstanding Young Farmer Organization – Albay Young Farmers Organization; Outstanding Agri Entrepreneur (Small) – Deloverges Agri-Farm, owned by Rey and Raquel Deloverges; Outstanding Small Farmer Organization – CMPC; Outstanding MFARMC – MFARMC of Jose Panganiban; Outstanding Rural Financial Institution (Non-Bank) – Camarines Norte Development Cooperative.
The Gawad Saka recognizes achievement, innovation, and sustainability by awarding a Php 50,000 cash incentive and a plaque to Farmer Regional Executive Directors, including Claudia Esmeralda Honrado, Chairperson of the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council Bicol.
The 50th Gawad Saka award ceremony honors agricultural pioneers and symbolizes a commitment to supporting farmers and fishermen.
Source: Albay PIO