BUTUAN CITY — The Department of Agriculture (DA) Caraga, in partnership with the Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council (RAFC) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) Caraga, convened the DUYOG: 1st Caraga Agri-Fishery Youth Congress from July 6 to 9, 2026, in Butuan City. The three-day event brought together young leaders from across the region, including representatives from the 4H Club, Caraga Young Agripreneurs, and the Young Farmers Challenge. The primary goal of the congress was to equip the next generation of farmers, fishers, and agripreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to strengthen the country's food security and support the government's vision of a future where no child goes hungry.
New Youth Network Launched to Amplify Voices in Agriculture
A major highlight of the congress was the official launch of the Caraga Regional Agri-Fishery Youth Network, a platform designed to foster collaboration among young agricultural leaders and amplify their voices in policy discussions. The network encourages active participation in agricultural planning and program implementation across the region. Juveriel D. Tenio, the overall chairperson of the DUYOG Congress, emphasized the importance of uniting all young people engaged in agriculture to strengthen the youth's voice in the formulation of plans and policies for the sector. The initiative builds on existing structures, as the region has already established a Sectoral Committee on Youth in Agriculture under the RAFC.
Building a Resilient Agricultural Future Through Youth Empowerment
Participants engaged in learning sessions covering agribusiness, leadership, innovation, and government support programs, equipping them with practical skills to improve productivity, develop sustainable enterprises, and generate livelihood opportunities. The congress is expected to produce long-term gains by cultivating a new generation of capable agricultural leaders, strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship, and encouraging greater participation in agricultural governance. By investing in young farmers, fishers, and agripreneurs, the initiative supports the government's broader goal of modernizing Philippine agriculture and achieving lasting food security. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to stronger collaboration among government, stakeholders, and the next generation of agricultural leaders.
