Bacolod: Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has pledged ongoing support for farmers in collaboration with agriculturists to assist President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration in achieving its food security objectives.
According to Philippines News Agency, Lacson made this commitment during the opening ceremony of the 12th National Congress and 2025 Philippine Agriculturists’ Summit held at the SMX Convention Center.
The summit, which spans five days, has drawn approximately 2,000 members of the Philippine Association of Agriculturists Inc. It carries the theme ‘Transformative Agriculture Towards a Resilient and Sustainable Food System.’ Lacson emphasized that President Marcos’ recent State of the Nation Address highlighted the critical role agriculture plays in securing the country’s future. The governor noted that the President’s call for sustained investment in food production, support for farmers, and the modernization of agricultural systems strongly aligns with the summit’s theme.
Lacson expressed that agriculture is not merely a sector but a significant economic driver, fundamental to rural communities and national resilience. He stated that Negros Occidental, being a predominantly agricultural province, is honored to host this national gathering of agriculture professionals and advocates, who contribute to shaping the future of food and farming in the Philippines.
The governor acknowledged the challenges the country has faced in recent years, such as natural calamities, pandemic disruptions, and market instabilities, as reminders of agriculture’s foundational role in food security. He stressed the primary role the agricultural sector plays in ensuring strong food value chains and promoting a vibrant rural economy that supports millions of Filipino families.
Lacson concluded that agriculture should be treated as an evolving and adaptive industry, connected to science, powered by technology, and supported by sustainable practices. He pledged a commitment to help farmers become more productive, climate-resilient, and better connected to markets, especially in the face of growing climate change threats.
