Highlighting the vital role of youth in strengthening the country’s agricultural future, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 8 (DA RFO8) recognized outstanding young farmers and agri-preneurs during the closing ceremonies of the 2026 Farmers and Fisherfolk Month Celebration (FFMC) held at Palo, Leyte on May 26, 2026.

The awarding ceremony featured young farmers who demonstrated innovation, leadership, and dedication in modernizing agriculture through sustainable farming practices and agribusiness initiatives. The recipients were recognized under various youth development and agripreneurship programs of the Department of Agriculture, including the Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) Program.

The young farmer awardees were:

• James Tan (Ormoc City)

• Rey Mark Alfante (Hilongos)

• Reian Laniba (Visayas State University)

• Aliana Maria Akala, Marnet Jane Constantino and Dimple Mae Digo (Eastern Visayas State University)

James Tan, National YFC Season 5 awardee, expressed gratitude to the DA for providing support, training, and opportunities that enabled them to improve their agricultural ventures and contribute to rural development.

“Thank you DA RFO8 for continuously opening doors for us and for making us feel that the youth have an important place in agriculture. Together we look forward to building a stronger, more resilient and sustainable agriculture for Eastern Visayas,” Mr Tan expressed.

The 2026 FFMC closing ceremonies concluded with renewed calls for stronger youth participation in agriculture and continued collaboration among government agencies, local communities, and private partners to ensure a progressive and resilient agri-fishery sector.