January 29-30, 2024 || World Palace Hotel, Acacia St., Ecoland Davao City
In a recent gathering of Rubber Stakeholders from all over Philippines, mostly attended by Region 9,10, 11, 12, 13 and BARMM togther with some of the dignitaries coming from Luzon, the two-day planning workshop themed “Usapang Goma: Sama-sama sa Pagtugon sa Pagpapaunlad ng Inudustriya sa Bagong Pilipinas” unfolded with zeal and purpose. The event brought together dedicated rubber farmers, traders and cooperatives, regional, provincial and municipal local government, who engaged in fruitful discussions about the future of the rubber industry.
The spotlight of the event shines on the tireless efforts of the attendees who hailed from different parts of the Philippines, uniting hand-in-hand for the common goal of advancing the nation’s rubber industry. Usec Mercedita Sombilla of DA Bureaus, took a dedicated stance during the discussions, demonstrating her serious commitment to the cause.
The hardworking and visionary Executive Director of PRRI, Dr. Cheryl Lazaga Eusala stirred the hearts of everyone as she uttered, “Magkahiusa kitang tanan alang sa kalambuan sa mag-uuma sa industriya sa goma” – passionately igniting unity in the hearts and aspirations of all participants – down from the rubber farmers up to the renowned dignitaries attending the event.
The presence of DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel was duly acknowledged, as he was represented by Director Joseph Manicad of Planning and Monitoring Service via Zoom. He delivered a message full of hope, outlining a promising future for the rubber industry.
Notable dignitaries graced the occasion, including Dr. Roel Suralta, Director of DA- Crop and Biotechnology Center (DA-CBC), Dr. Claro Mingala, Director of Biotechnology Program Office (DA-BPO), and Mr. Abdul I. Daya-an, ATI Center Director of South Cotabato. Hon. Allan Escamillan, Chairman of Food and Agriculture in Zamboanga Sibugay, along with Provincial Agriculturists and technical consultants Dr. Narceo Bajet and Vivencio Mamaril, added their valuable perspectives to the discussions.
This event served as a platform for comprehensive discussions and insights from PRRI’s three divisions (CMD, RTESD, GRID), fostering a professional and collaborative atmosphere. Participants, representing various regions, shared thoughtful and sentimental perspectives and personal concerns about the industry, reflecting a commitment to addressing challenges. The event underscored a dedicated and inclusive approach, promising a strategic and responsive trajectory for the advancement of the Philippine rubber sector.
From where we are now, it is sure that PRRI’s trajectory is promising because it is founded on a collaborative effort towards a flourishing rubber industry. With overwhelming gratitude, the participants being the winner for sharing their precious time and commitment, highlighted a united front to a more resilient and thriving rubber sector in the Philippines.
Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas!!
Mabuhay ang Philippine rubber industry!!!
– Julius Biolango
