In a significant move to bolster agricultural engagement, the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Caraga region convened over 90 Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) federation leaders at the Agri Youth Summit in Butuan City. Held on November 22, 2024, the summit was a platform for these young leaders to delve into the DA’s priority programs and explore ways to promote agriculture within their communities.
Emmylou Presilda, head of the DA-13’s agriculture and fisheries information section, highlighted the summit’s goal to not only update the youth on current agricultural initiatives but also to motivate them to become advocates for farming in their local areas. She stressed the importance of equipping these leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to champion agriculture.
Abel Wagas, the technical director for research and integrated laboratories at DA-13, addressed the critical issue of the aging farming population in the Philippines. He called on the SK leaders to take an active role in revitalizing the sector by promoting agriculture in their regions, thereby making a tangible difference.
DA-13 Executive Director Arlan Mangelen also played a key role at the summit, sharing insights on the current state of agriculture in Caraga and encouraging collaborative efforts to tackle the challenges facing the sector. The summit concluded with a workshop where the SK leaders crafted strategies aimed at increasing youth involvement in agriculture across their communities.