ILOILO CITY — The Department of Agriculture Western Visayas recognized fifteen exceptional farmers, fisherfolk, organizations, and local councils during the 2026 Gawad Saka Regional Awarding Ceremony on October 5. The prestigious event celebrated their vital contributions to driving regional food security and ensuring sustainable livelihoods across the region.
Celebrating Agricultural Excellence
The department recognized outstanding individuals who showcased exceptional productivity and innovation in their respective fields. Master Mariner Rex R. Baldestamon of Patnongon, Antique, was named Outstanding Corn-Based Farmer, while Ramon R. Rasco of Banga, Aklan, earned the Outstanding Coconut Farmer award for his exemplary sustainable practices.
Several other dedicated agriculturalists received top honors for diversifying their crops and livestock. Engr. Ed Roderick V. Cañuto of Badiangan, Iloilo, and Gerard M. Camiña of Sibunag, Guimaras, won for high-value crops. Concepcion C. Carillo and Reynilda P. Partida were also recognized alongside fisherfolk awardee Gina R. Ungsod.
Organizations Leading Food Security
Organizational awardees each received P500,000, while individual winners took home P100,000. The Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Council of Aklan and the Municipal Agriculture and Fishery Council of Kalibo were lauded for their excellent local governance and unwavering support to regional farmers and fisherfolk.
Three prominent Iloilo rice farmer organizations were specifically cited for their remarkable work in irrigation management and the adoption of farm mechanization. These included the Serruco Irrigators' Association of Sara, the Lacasan Irrigators' Association of Leganes, and the Mapili Farmers Association of San Enrique.
The JPT Ediscape Garden in Jaro, Iloilo City, was recognized for outstanding urban and peri-urban agriculture, proving that farming can thrive in highly congested spaces. The Ajuy Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council also received accolades for their dedicated coastal resource management.
Redefining True Food Security
ATI Director Antonieta Arceo stressed during her keynote speech that true food security extends beyond mere abundance in quantity. It requires ensuring safe, nutritious, and sustainable food while actively empowering and providing opportunities for the producers themselves to prosper and thrive.
DA Western Visayas Regional Executive Director Arpia called for the integration of these successful farming models into government programs. By documenting and sharing these best practices, the agency aims to inspire more farmers and fisherfolk to adopt modern technologies and achieve long-term success.
The ceremony also officially launched the 2027 Gawad Saka Search, initiating the annual nationwide call for exceptional agricultural role models. This continuous search ensures that the legacy of excellence, innovation, and food security advocacy will be sustained and celebrated across the region for many years.
