The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) honored farmers and fisherfolk Monday for their critical contributions to food security during the kickoff of Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month.

DA-11 Director Macario Gonzaga called them “steadfast pillars of food security” and praised their resilience.

“We celebrate your unending dedication and for striving hard to put food on our tables. I can see the spirit of resilience in your faces,” he said.

The month-long event will highlight their efforts, with Gonzaga pledging continued support through innovation and partnerships.

Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno, represented by Deputy Executive Director Romeo Montenegro, linked the celebration to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas” anchored on agricultural strength.

“This kind of success requires more than investment; it demands collaboration,” Magno said in his speech.

MinDA is crafting a coastal resource management plan to boost fisheries and transition Mindanao to a blue economy, he added. (PNA)