CITY OF MALOLOS — Some 250 participants recently attended the Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) Summit 2023 at the Merryland Integrated Farm and Training Center in Barangay Taal, Pulilan town.

The Provincial Public Affairs Office of Bulacan said Agricultural Extension Workers Summit 2023 aims to equip AEWs in the province with the latest knowledge necessary for guiding farmers in the face of evolving climatic challenges.

The AEWs were given updates on the current status and prospects in agriculture relevant to the provision of agricultural extension services.

With the theme “Dynamic Resilient Farming: Agriculture in the Age of Climate Transformation”, topic discussed during the summit were Implementation of the National Soil Health Program: Collaborative Action in Addressing Soil, Land Degradation, Climate Change & Biodiversity Loss by Engr. Oscar Carpio from the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Soils and Water Management; Eric Reynoso from the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study discussed Web-based Integrated Spatial Engine and Smart Ecosystem Carbon Farming.

Nestor Nimes from the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration tackled Research in Agriculture; Awareness of El Niño Phenomenon and Lowell Rebillaco from the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III discussed Central Luzon’s Action Plan for El Niño.

Gov. Daniel Fernando’s message, delivered by Crispin de Luna, emphasized the pivotal role of AEWs in guiding local farmers and fisherfolks.

The governor said “Batid ko po ang mga balakid at kalbaryong kinakaharap ninyo sa kasalukuyan kaya naman para mapagaan ang inyong pasanin ay patuloy tayong nagbababa ng mga komprehensibong programa at proyektong tutugon sa inyong mga pangangailangan. Hindi rin tayo natatakot na mag-invest sa mga trainings at seminars upang matuto ng makabagong pamamaraan sa pagtatanim at pangingisda ang ating mga kababayan.”

On the other hand Vice Gov. Alexis Castro recognized the relentless efforts of AEWs in the province, acknowledging their significant contribution in the improvement of agriculture, fisheries, and livestock sectors amidst challenges.

Photo: Provincial Government of Bulacan