(FARMERS’ DAY. Mayor Edwin “EdSa” Santiago leads the awarding of inputs to the farmers of the City of San Fernando during the celebration of Farmers’ Day on February 14, 2019. Joining him are City Councilors Harvey Quiwa and Reden Halili.)
In the City of San Fernando, February 14 is not just the celebration of Valentine’s Day, but it is also a day to recognize the contribution of farmers to the local and national economy.
“Hangang-hanga ako sa inyong sipag at tiyaga na sa kabila man ng pag-usbong ng mga makabagong teknolohiya, ay hindi niyo binitawan ang pagsasaka at patuloy niyo pa rin itong pinapalawig. Kaya naman isa kayo sa mga dahilan kung bakit ang agrikultura sa Syudad San Fernando, ay hindi pa rin naglalaho,” Mayor Edwin “EdSa” Santiago told some 320 landtillers who attended the “Farmers’ Day”.
All smiles were seen in the farmers’ faces as they enjoyed the half-day program, which is part of the Kaganapan 2019 celebration.
In her opening remarks, City Agriculturist Cristina Sangumay said it’s high time for the local government to extend its gratitude to the farmers for always ensuring food security in the community and increasing agricultural productivity.
“Handog po ito ng Lokal na Pamahalaan sa inyo, bilang aming pasasalamat sa inyong dedikasyon sa pagsasaka,” she said.
Various activities were conducted, including the oath taking of the newly-elected officers of “Fernandino Organic Farmers’ Association” organization, “Pinaka” awarding for the heaviest and biggest tilapia, eggplant and other crops; and, awarding of inputs such as irrigation facilities, small farm machineries, certified seeds, and fertilizers. Santiago furthered that despite the heat of the sun, the farmers always continue their work just to provide the agricultural needs of the community.
“Hindi biro ang magsaka nang maghapon, pero kayo pinatunayan niyo na walang kalamidad o sakuna ang makapipigil sa inyo sa pagtugon sa pangangailangan ng mga Fernandino, kaya naman ipinagmamalaki ko kayo bilang mga dakilang magsasaka ng Syudad San Fernando Ipagpatuloy ninyo ang inyong magandang adhikain, at nawa’y maipasa niyo ito sa mga susunod na henerasyon,” Santiago said.
Also present during the celebration were Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin, City Councilors Harvey Quiwa, Reden Halili, Nelson Lingat, Tino Dizon, Ruping Dumlao, Brgy. Captain Tina Lagman (Saguin) and BUTIL Partylist nominee Agapito Guanlao.
