Manila: Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. urged employees of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to uphold consistency and sincere public service amid the holiday season. ‘Trabaho lang tayo na mas masigla, mas magaan at mas nagkaka-isa (Let us just work vigorously, lighter and more united). Let the Christmas spirit live in us all month long,’ he said in a statement on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel reminded the DA family to ‘stay grounded and principled’ despite all the ‘distractions and pressures’ during the holidays. He emphasized the importance of rekindling the true essence of Christmas, which he described as ‘faithful and heartfelt service for the nation.’

He took the opportunity to thank DA staff for their hard work as he marked his second year of leadership, highlighting their continuous efforts to uphold the welfare of farmers, fishers, and consumers. Tiu Laurel also reiterated his stance against the recent allegations made by former Ako Bicol Party-list representative Zaldy Co, who allegedly sought favors from him on importation. He firmly stated, ‘Hindi tayo pumayag (We did not allow it),’ stressing that he has maintained ‘integrity and professionalism’ as head of the DA.