PGLU turns over P4.6M worth of Processing Centers to Kabulig Farmers Association of Santol
By: Office of the Provincial Agriculturist | Photos By: Rizalde Buenaventura, PIO | Date: March 12, 2024
La Union unfolds another step towards becoming the Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025 on March 12, 2024, as the Kabulig Farmers Association in Lettac Sur, Santol, La Union received the Kabulig Sweet Potato and Banana Processing Center Project in a turn over ceremony led by Gov. Raphaelle Veronica "Rafy" Ortega-David. A blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony took place before the turnover that marked the inauguration of the processing facility.
This project stands as a testament to the collaboration between government agencies in the region. The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Food and Drug Administration, and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) all played crucial roles. The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) further demonstrated its commitment to agricultural development by allocating Php 4.6 million for the establishment of the processing facility. The processing center is expected to boost the livelihood of the local food processors in the province’s upland municipality of Santol.
Ms. Sharon Viloria, Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG), warmly welcomed the attendees and set the stage for a momentous occasion. Gov. Rafy emphasized the PGLU's unwavering commitment to the association's success as she expressed, “Presence always matters.” It signified that the PGLU wouldn't just offer symbolic support, but would be present throughout their journey, offering guidance, resources, and a helping hand whenever needed.
Present during the event is Board Member Ramon Guio Ortega Jr., Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture; Mayor Magno A. Wailan represented by Municipal Administrator Ms. Rachell Arellano; Assistant Regional Director Atty. Glaiza Bernadeth P. Tadeo of DAR RO1; Ms. Katrina F. Ronquillo, Senior Science Research Specialist of DOST RO1; and Ms. Jobelle Raut, Senior Trade and Development Specialist of DTI RO1 who expressed their support to the association.
The event culminated with the awarding of the Certificate of Award to the Kabulig Farmers Association. Association President Ralyn Zambrona and members, received the certificate with gratitude. She then delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing the association's commitment to utilizing the facility effectively and their appreciation for the collaborative effort that brought the project. She added that the processing center is a big help to their livelihood as it serves as a permanent structure where they could carry out their operation.
This collaborative project signifies La Union PROBINSYAnihan which marks a major milestone towards La Union's goal of becoming a leader in Agri-Tourism.
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