In a fervent bid to harmonize tradition with technological innovation, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office VIII and the Province of Samar sealed their commitment towards the development and commercialization of heirloom rice through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), held on October 15, 2025, in Catbalogan City.

The event marked a significant milestone in the collective effort to protect Samar’s heirloom rice varieties—long valued for their unique flavor, resilience, and cultural heritage—while promoting their wider production and market potential.

Under this undertaking, DA RFO 8 is tasked to provide value-chain support and oversee the project implementation, while the LGUs will mobilize AEWs and allocate resources to support the project.

In his message, OIC-Regional Executive Director Rodel G. Macapañas stressed the full support and readiness of the agency to go an extra mile in delivering the commitments under the project.

Governor Sharee Ann Tan, together with the local chief executives of pilot municipalities—Calbiga, Gandara, Hinabangan, Matuguinao, Motiong, Pinabacdao, Paranas, San Jorge, and San Jose de Buan—expressed their strong support for the program, recognizing the initiative as a vital step toward empowering upland and indigenous farmers who have long cultivated heirloom rice through traditional methods.

The MOU signing concluded with a symbolic kick-off and commitment ceremony, highlighting the shared vision of the lead agencies and participating LGUs to sustain the province’s rich agricultural heritage while opening new avenues for agribusiness and community development.