Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel made a significant visit to the province of Nueva Vizcaya this morning (September 12), where he announced a series of new projects aimed at bolstering the local agricultural sector. The visit took place at the Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal (NVAT), where Secretary Laurel was accompanied by Governor Jose V. Gambito and NVAT Manager Guilbert Cumila.
During his ocular inspection of the facility, Secretary Laurel immediately approved Governor Gambito’s request for the construction of a rice processing facility equipped with a mechanical dryer, warehouse, rice mill, and an additional trading post. He assured local officials and farmers that these projects would be implemented swiftly to provide immediate benefits to the community.
Secretary Laurel also expressed his strong support for Governor Gambito’s initiative to institutionalize organic farming within the province. He emphasized the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and committed the DA’s full backing for these initiatives, recognizing their potential to improve both environmental and economic outcomes for local farmers.
Secretary Laurel also commended NVAT officials for their exceptional management of the terminal and the successful execution of previously funded projects by the Department of Agriculture. He promised continued funding support for the juice processing facility currently under construction at NVAT, ensuring its completion and operational success.
“I have long wanted to visit Nueva Vizcaya to personally see the NVAT, which plays a crucial role in supplying vegetables to Metro Manila,” Secretary Laurel stated. He also noted his personal connection to the province, mentioning that some of his relatives reside in Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya.
Secretary Laurel was accompanied by Asec. Daniel Alfonso N. Atayde, Assistant Secretary for Logistics, DA officials from Region 2, and Mayor Benjamin Lloren Cuaresma of Bambang. /rmi
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