The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)-Tarlac Extension Office conducted a capacity development training for farmer-leaders of Irrigators’ Associations (IAs) across Central Luzon on August 20, 2025, at the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Regional Office III in San Rafael, Bulacan.
More than 40 IA federation leaders from the seven provinces of Region 3 participated in the said training organized by NIA. It was designed to strengthen the organizational and governance capacities of farmer-leaders, ensuring that their associations remain compliant with SEC regulations and are better equipped to sustain operations in support of agricultural development.
The resource speakers from the SEC Tarlac, led by Director Richard R. Laus, discussed the latest services and policies of the Commission, covering registration procedures for non-stock corporations, proper filing of annual reports through the SEC’s online platforms, submission of updated contact information, and adherence to basic corporate governance rules.
The activity further highlighted the importance of compliance, not only as a legal requirement but also as a means to strengthen the transparency, accountability, and credibility of irrigators’ associations. With stronger organizational governance, farmer groups can establish strong partnerships with government agencies and private institutions, enabling them to access more programs and projects for their communities.
In his message, Director Laus emphasized the Commission’s commitment to supporting grassroots organizations such as the irrigators’ associations, noting that compliance with SEC regulations goes hand in hand with sustainability and credibility. “Through compliance and good governance, irrigators’ associations can strengthen their role as partners in agricultural development. The SEC is here not only as a regulator, but also as a partner in empowering their organizations to thrive and serve their members more effectively,” he said.
Meanwhile, Engr. Christian C. Manalo, Engineering and Operations Division Manager of NIA Region III, expressed gratitude to SEC for its active role in capacitating the IAs in the region. “By equipping our leaders with the right knowledge on governance and compliance, we are ensuring that our irrigators’ associations can thrive as strong, accountable, and sustainable partners in agricultural development,” he said.
The collaboration between the SEC and NIA underscores a shared commitment to farmer empowerment, recognizing that effective leadership and good corporate governance are vital to improving agricultural productivity and promoting rural development in Central Luzon.
