By Rowena Cruz Members of the Lucena City HUC AFC discuss key initiatives to support local farmers and fisherfolk during their first meeting...
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| Members of the Lucena City HUC AFC discuss key initiatives to support local farmers and fisherfolk during their first meeting of the year. (Lucena City Agriculture Office - FITS Center) |
LUCENA CITY – Key initiatives to address challenges facing local farmers and fisherfolk were the focus of a recent meeting held by Lucena City's Highly Urbanized City Agricultural and Fishery Council (HUC AFC) – their first gathering of the year – at the Lucena City Government Complex.
The meeting brought together council members and City Agriculture Office employees to discuss critical issues impacting the city's agricultural and fisheries sectors. Held at the Lucena City Government Complex, the session was led by Chairman Virginia Ronquillo and City Agriculturist Office OIC Jirah Lou Merano.
The council emphasized the importance of accrediting Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to strengthen partnerships with the government and facilitate a collaborative approach to tackling the hardships faced by farmers and fisherfolk. This included discussions regarding the accreditation of Civil Society Organizations, a topic spearheaded by Agricultural Program Coordinating Office Head Jan Oliver Sarmiento.
Sarmiento stressed that accreditation empowers CSOs to actively participate in policymaking and program implementation, ensuring their voices are heard in the fight for the sector's future. A key focus of the meeting was the vital role of these CSOs in supporting vulnerable communities.
The HUC AFC outlined its project timeline for the year, focusing on initiatives to bolster key agricultural areas and address challenges like limited resources, volatile prices, and climate change. Projects will be implemented and monitored throughout the year, with discussions including new technologies, training programs, and stronger market linkages.
In addition to project timelines, the council discussed several other key matters. Focal Persons from the Office of the City Agriculturist presented Plans and Activities for 2025 aimed at driving agricultural growth. The council also reviewed the status of 2025 Policy Recommendations, ensuring their effective execution. Finally, members raised and discussed other relevant concerns impacting the agricultural and fisheries sector.
The council reaffirmed its commitment to boosting these vital sectors and ensuring their sustainability. Members discussed strategies for improving support for rice farmers, vegetable growers, and fisherfolk, all of whom are grappling with rising costs and declining yields.
Chairman Ronquillo and OIC Merano thanked the members for their contributions. The HUC AFC's ongoing work aims to increase productivity, improve livelihoods, and ensure food security for Lucena City's residents, all while navigating the complex challenges facing its agricultural and fisheries sectors.
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