Tuguegarao City (DA RFO 02) – In recognition and celebration of women’s exceptional contributions to agriculture, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office No. 02 (DA RFO 02), through its Gender and Developpment Focal Point System (GFPS), held the 3rd Women in Agriculture Congress cum Recognition of Outstanding Women Farmers. The event led by DA Regional Executive Director Dr. Rose Mary G. Aquino, convened at SM City Tuguegarao, San Gabriel, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, on March 26, 2025.

This year’s event, with the theme “Women in Agriculture: Growing Beyond Boundaries,” highlighted the achievements of women who, despite facing numerous social, economic, and cultural challenges, have remained resilient and strong in their roles in agriculture. Thirty-six 2025 Outstanding Women Farmers, six farmers’ cooperatives and associations, and the 2024 Regional Winners for Outstanding Women Farmers were recognized as they took the stage.

The event was graced by Ms. Bernadette T. Galoso, Project Evaluation Officer V, and Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Council Executive Officer, who introduced the participants and esteemed guests. Notable attendees included representatives from partner agencies across Region 02, such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Environment and Natural Resources(DENR), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Civil Service Commission (CSC). Rural Improvement Club (RIC) Federation, PCAF Technical Staff National Coordinator, as well as city and municipal agriculturists and fishery council coordinators and GESI representatives from different municipalities and cities.

In her address, Ms. Galoso expressed her gratitude and admiration for the attendees, saying,”Naway maging kapaki-pakinabang at matagumpay ang araw na ito higit lalo sa ating mga kababaihan sa sektor ng agrikultura”.”

Dr. Evangeline Calubaquib, City Agriculturist of Tuguegarao City, representing Mayor Maila Ting-Que, also delivered welcome remarks, highlighting the vital role of women in sustaining the agriculture sector and uplifting the socio-economic conditions of communities and the nation as a whole.

Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Ms. Kay Olivas delivered an inspirational message, stating:

“Our husbands sometimes struggle to make major decisions in married life because some men cannot stand alone. We were made to complement each other, and God created us for companionship. Women are more conscious of why we engage in farming. We are always guided and inspired to do more, strive harder, and work not just for ourselves but for our families, children, communities, and the environment.”

“Giginhawa ang pamilya dahil masaya si Nanay. Kapag masaya si Nanay, masaya ang lahat, at uunlad ang pamilya”, she added.

Meanwhile, RED Dr. Rose Mary G. Aquino remarked:

“Mukha kayong hindi nagtatrabaho sa bukid sa kagandaang taglay ninyo ngayon! Lumalabas ang ating kagandahan sa mga ganitong pagkakataon dahil ang ganda na ‘yan ay hinuhugot sa ating lakas at kasiglahan sa pagtatrabaho para sa sektor ng agrikultura at pangisdaan, hindi lamang para sa ating sarili kundi para rin sa ating komunidad”

She further emphasized the significance of recognizing women’s contributions in agriculture, stating that “Perhaps it is the right time for this occasion through this congress that history, can now be transform into her story or her history, sapagkat unti-unti nang nauukit at nakikila ang kahusayan at contribution ng ating kababaihan sa sector ng agrikultura lalo na dito sa ating region Cagayan Valley.”

The guest speaker, Dr. Zsa-Zsa Manases, shared her journey in farming, emphasizing that:

“The empowerment of women in agriculture is a powerful agent for transformation. When women have access to critical resources such as land, financial services, technology, and training, they are better positioned to take on leadership roles within their families and communities. This empowerment initiates a positive cycle that benefits everyone. Today, I take this moment to acknowledge and celebrate all the remarkable women—our unsung heroes—who drive agricultural innovation, sustainability, and growth.”

She further encouraged women to embrace farming, stating:

“Sa pagsasaka, may ‘forever’ basta may tiyaga at dedikasyon. Farming and medicine are similar: both require patience, flexibility, and a deep connection with people and nature. With time, love, care, and effort, our labor will bear fruit.”

In her acceptance speech, Ms. Dauphine Alviar, 2024 Regional Winner of the Search for Outstanding Rural Women, shared her thoughts:

“It is not the brilliant mind that speaks, but the patient heart that listens. Sa larangan ng Agrikultura mga ibinahagi ko sa kapwa ay my time, talent, and resources on the other hand my knowledge, skills, and attitude. Ang tagumpay ko ay hindi nasusukat sa numero, it is passion, character, and spirit that truly define success.”

RAFC 02 Chairperson Mr. Dante Tobias delivered the closing remarks, stating:

“Napakalaking tuwa ng mga kalalakihan ngayon sapagkat saludo kami sa inyong kahusayan sa larangan ng agrikultura. Nawa’y lalo pa kayong maging huwaran sa ating lipunan upang maipakita ang tunay na halaga ng agrikultura sa pagsugpo ng gutom at kahirapan. Ang inyong kakayahan ay isang mahalagang susi sa pagbawas ng kahirapan at malnutrisyon sa ating bansa.”

This event was not just a gathering—it was a recognition and celebration of women’s outstanding contributions and dedication to agricultural development. It highlighted their essential role in shaping a resilient and sustainable future for the farming industry.