World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM), Pasay City
October 5, 2017
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte linked the security problems in Mindanao as a factor that might affect the country’s agricultural production during his speech in the opening ceremonies on Agrilink / Foodlink / Aqualink 2017 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM) in Pasay City.
“The problem is in Mindanao. Meron kasi tayong serious security problems. And for as long as there is trouble, we cannot initiate programs that would guarantee a good production for the year. There is so much terrorism and a lot of extortion around. We still have to finish the siege in Marawi… Talking of agriculture, the greatest promise of food security would really be Mindanao,” he said.
President Duterte also disclosed in his speech that one of the biggest budgetary allocations is in the Department of Agriculture (DA) and stressed that the utilization of the allocated money is crucial. He also lauded the organizing committee of the event for contributing to the vision of a more productive and progressive agricultural sector in the country.
“Through the years, these events have become a venue of meaningful dialogue between the government and various stakeholders regarding services, breakthroughs, and challenges in the agribusiness industry,” he added.
During the opening ceremonies, Candelario ‘Larry’ Miculob, the over-all Chair of the Agrilink / Foodlink / Aqualink 2017 and Durian Industry Council of Davao City, said that this year’s event focuses on how improved crop varieties and post harvest facilities are essential to profitability.
“Today’s Philippine business industry, in which I am part of it, reflects the ever imposing need to sustain our supply chain as we set our sights on the international arena… The success stories of our tropical fruits are the result of our continuous improvement in supply chain, selecting and developing better varieties, adapting good agricultural practices, and enhancing our competitiveness in the global market through value adding,” he explained.
The Agrilink / Foodlink / Aqualink 2017, a three-day event, holds exhibitions and seminars on local and international agribusiness, food processing, packaging, products, and fisheries.
President Duterte, during the opening ceremonies, was accompanied by Senator Cynthia Villar, Presidential Consultant for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion III, and DA Undersecretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.
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