A stronger agricultural sector begins at the grassroots, where agricultural extension workers (AEWs) stand at the frontline of bringing knowledge, technology, and government support closer to farmers and fisherfolk. With this goal, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 convened AEWs from across Eastern Visayas on August 16, 2026, in Marabut, Samar to strengthen their capacity and discuss vital issues concerning the delivery of agricultural extension services in the region.
In her opening remarks, Regional Technical Director Leonarda T. Londina underscored the indispensable role of AEWs in connecting science, government, and innovation with agricultural communities.
“Agricultural extension workers bridge science and the field, the government and farmers, and innovation and adoption We see you. We value you. And, we will support you. Kayo ang susi sa masaganang ani at mataas na kita para sa ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda,” she emphasized.
[You are the key to achieving bountiful harvests and higher incomes for our farmers and fisherfolk.]
In his keynote address, Dr. John Paul Gapasin, PAA Regional President, highlighted four pillars for strengthening agricultural extension, underscoring the need to professionalize and capacitate agricultural extension workers.
“Professionalize to strengthen agriculturists, capacitate to strengthen the institution, Innovate to strengthen the solution, and connect to bring those solutions to people. When these four work together, we strengthen the most important capacity of all—the capacity of farmers and communities,” he said.
The congress also provided AEWs with timely updates on agricultural performance of the region, El Niño outlook and forecast, and Gawad Saka awards, giving them information they can bring back to farming and fishing communities.
Meanwhile, OIC-Regional Executive Director Rodel G. Macapañas discussed how the department has supported devolved extension personnel since the enactment of the Local Government Code to advance agricultural modernization and technology transfer.
An open forum followed, centering on the incentives of AEWs and pressing issues affecting the agricultural sector in Eastern Visayas. The group was also urged to use its network to strengthen its voice on key policy concerns.
“Gin a-acknowledge namon ha DA RFO 8 an iyo effort and contribution in delivering agricultural extension services directly to our farmers. Kami, in the regional office, commits our fullest support to ensure the welfare of our AEWs,” he said.
[At DA RFO 8, we acknowledge your efforts and contributions in delivering agricultural extension services directly to our farmers. We, at the Regional Office, commit our fullest support to ensure the welfare of our AEWs.]
The gathering underscored that when extension workers are better compensated and equipped, farmers are better served—strengthening the link between knowledge and the field, and ultimately helping build a more productive and resilient agriculture sector.