“DAKAYO TI BACKBONE ITI EKONOMIYA”: Vice Gov. Odiem salutes Kalinga farmers, recognizing their hardwork and contributions during DA Chief’s Visit

Tabuk City – Recognizing the farmers as the “backbone of the economy,” Vice-Governor Dave Odiem honored the hard work, sacrifices, and dedication of Kalinga farmers during the visit of Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Friday, May 22.

Speaking during the formal program at the Kalinga Sports Complex, Odiem emphasized the crucial role of farmers in sustaining the province’s economy and ensuring food security for every family in Kalinga.

According to the vice governor, the continued efforts of farmers in the fields remain essential to the survival of communities and the overall progress of the province.

“Kadagiti ipatpateg mi nga farmers ti Kalinga, dakayo ti backbone iti ekonomiya. Dagiti im-ima yo nga agmulamula ket isu ti magbibiag iti komunidad tayo. Isu a tatta, agyaman ken padayawan mi ti amin nga manalon kadagiti tulong ken sakripisyo yo, agmula-mula tapno maaddaan iti tunggal pamilya,” Odiem stated.

The vice governor also welcomed the DA secretary’s visit, describing it as a strong message that the government continues to recognize and value the contributions of farmers and indigenous communities in Kalinga.

“We are honored by the presence of the Honorable Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Secretary Francisco Laurel. Sir, your presence here in Kalinga is a powerful message that our farmers and the people in our indigenous community are not forgotten. This means that we people of Kalinga are treasured and cared for by the government,” he added.

Odiem further stressed that through the continued support of the Department of Agriculture, local officials, and the cooperation of farmers, Kalinga can move toward stronger agricultural development and better opportunities for future generations.

“With the guidance of the Department of Agriculture, the support of our local officials, and the dedication of our farmers, we can sow seeds of hope and harvest abundance for generations to come. If food is sufficient for all, if all farmers are empowered, and the community unites, progress for Kalinga will continue. Agbiag dagiti farmers,” Odiem stressed.

During the activity, Secretary Laurel led the distribution of various farm machinery and agricultural assistance to several farmers’ groups in the province as part of the government’s continuing support for the agriculture sector.

The DA also rolled out the Benteng Bigas program in Kalinga, an initiative aimed at making affordable rice more accessible to vulnerable individuals and families.