The Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office III (DA-RFO III) has hailed the Province of Bulacan as the Top Performing Province (Rank 1) for the implementation of programs, projects, and activities under the Department of Agriculture’s various banner programs.

The recognition reflects the collective efforts of local officials, agriculture workers, farmers, and extension personnel in strengthening Bulacan’s agricultural sector.

Bulacan Governor Daniel R. Fernando lauded the province’s agriculture workers and farmers for their unwavering dedication.

“Ang pagkilalang ito ay bunga ng pagsusumikap, pagtitiyaga, at pagkakaisa ng ating mga manggagawa sa agrikultura at mga magsasaka. Ang kanilang mga sakripisyo at dedikasyon ang siyang sumisiguro sa seguridad sa pagkain para sa Bulacan at sa buong rehiyon,” he said.

Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) head Ma. Gloria S.F. Carrillo likewise paid tribute to Bulacan’s farmers, describing them as the backbone of the province’s agricultural success. She emphasized that all programs and interventions of the provincial government are anchored on improving farmers’ livelihoods.

Apart from the provincial citation, DA-RFO III also recognized Outstanding Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) in the region. Raymart C. Santiago of the Bulacan PAO placed Top 4 for excellence in implementing high-value crops programs, while Magdalena H. Angeles of the Municipal Agriculture Office of Doña Remedios Trinidad ranked Top 7 in the same category.

Meanwhile, the Province of Zambales secured second place for its implementation of programs, projects, and activities under the DA’s Rice Program for Fiscal Year 2025.

Zambales Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr. said the recognition was the result of the collective efforts of officials and employees of the Provincial Agriculture Office, led by former Provincial Agriculturist G. Crisostomo R. Rabaca.

Among those cited were Arnel V. Abayan, supervising agriculturist and chief of operations; Marife C. Ibarra, A-II and provincial rice program coordinator; Maricres A. Cabasan, LA-II and provincial rice report officer; and other PAO employees.

“Ang Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ng Zambales, sa pamumuno ng inyo pong lingkod Gob. Jun Ebdane, ay taos-pusong nagpupugay sa tagumpay na ito—isang patunay ng masaganang ani, mahusay na pamamahala, at walang sawang pagsusumikap para sa patuloy na kaunlaran ng sektor ng agrikultura sa ating lalawigan,” he said.