Photo from 100.9 DYMT Community Radio
The officials from ASU, PAA, PRC, PRBA, DA-RFO VI, and ATI pose for a photo opportunity with the newly registered agriculturists.
BANGA, Aklan - Over 100 agriculture professionals from the 16 state universities and colleges took their oath as newly registered agriculturists during the mass oath-taking and induction ceremonies held at the Aklan State University (ASU) Banga Campus.
Photo from 100.9 DYMT Community Radio
Newly registered agriculturists take oath as professionals.
The Philippine Association of Agriculturists, Inc. (PAA), Region VI – Darag Chapter, in collaboration with the ASU and in coordination with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Regional Office VI, organized this activity.
Hon. Annabelle S. Sarabia, Ph.D., a Member of the Professional Regulatory Board for Agriculture, administered the mass oath-taking and served as the event's keynote speaker. She applauded the agriculturists for their victory in completing the arduous journey of becoming a professional.
She emphasized that out of 7,144 examinees, 3,628 passed the 2024 Agriculture Licensure Examination (ALE), resulting in a national passing rate of 50.78%. Moreover, as stated in the code of ethics for agriculturists, she emphasized the responsibilities and duties of a professional agriculturist.
Photo from 100.9 DYMT Community Radio
Dr. Annabelle S. Sarabia, a Member of the Professional Regulatory Board of Agriculture (PRBA), administers the oath-taking of the new agriculturists.
ASU President Dr. Jeffrey A. Clarin congratulated the newly registered agriculturists and encouraged them to be passionate and dedicated in their chosen profession. "Let your passion fuel your dedication, and let your dedication inspire others," he remarked.
Director Romel B. Balisang, Regional Director of the PRC Region VI, likewise extended his compliments to the new professionals. He noted their resilience, dedication, and hard work, bringing them a well-deserved, remarkable success. Balisang also highlighted that out of 438 examinees in Western Visayas, 231 successfully hurdled the ALE, representing a 52.74 passing rate, which is higher than the national passing rate.
Photo from DYMT Community Radio
ATI National Director Engr. Remelyn R. Recoter receives the certificate of appreciation from PAA Darag Chapter President Mr. Michael Ibisate as a token of appreciation for supporting the PPA activity.
Meanwhile, ATI National Director Engr. Remelyn R. Recoter noted Philippine agriculture's transformation with the passing of Senate Bill 2906 or the Philippine Agriculturist Act. She emphasized that under this bill, they want to uplift the role of agriculturists. This bill will also ensure fair compensation, professional growth, and higher standards in agricultural practice. Director Recoter also assured the new agriculturists that the ATI will support them in their agricultural endeavors. She remarked: "Through our training programs, technology transfer, and extension services, we will equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed."
Next, Mr. Clark Melendrez, Senior Agriculturist of the DA RFO, represented Regional Executive Director Dennis R. Arpia. In his speech, he emphasized the agricultural sector's contribution to the growth of the Philippine economy despite the challenges that beset the industry. He also reminded the new agriculture professionals of their role in advancing the agriculture sector.
In response to the messages, Mr. Janrey R. Itulid, board passer from the ASU, shared his journey towards being a professional agriculturist. Itulid shared that being resilient and goal-oriented has helped him achieve success.
Lastly, Dr. Fernando C. Sanchez, Jr., PAA National President, shared some vital information that the new agriculturists must adhere to as the new members of the PAA. Further, he encouraged them to create positive changes in the community and be the catalyst for agricultural and rural development.
Newly-registered agriculturists from Negros Island and Mindanao regions were also part of this oath-taking and induction ceremony that took place on February 17, 2025, in this town.
