Mayor Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez signed a partnership agreement with founding farmer, president, and chief executive officer of AGREA Agricultural Systems International Inc., Cherrie Atilano, to conduct an impact assessment of the existing agricultural programs of Victorias City to ensure food and nutrition security on Friday, January 5.
The impact assessment aims to analyze program implementation and outcomes, formulate recommendations to improve programs and develop a strategic plan, implementation roadmap, and policies, the memorandum of agreement states.
AGREA will facilitate inclusive data gathering and engagement for program beneficiaries, including local farmers and fisherfolk, a press release from Victorias City said.
The assessment results shall provide valuable insights into enhancing the city’s food and nutrition security projects and rationalizing efforts through a strategic plan and policy roadmap, it said.
Ultimately, this partnership with AGREA targets developing food systems, assisting Victoriahanon farmers and fisherfolk and upholding community nutrition and resilience, it added.
Benitez emphasized that as the LGU allocated a three times bigger budget for agriculture this year, Victorias needs all the help it can get. Hence, the partnership with AGREA will develop strategies to create a food security and a nutrition masterplan, he said.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has also verbally committed to providing assistance to the agriculture industry in Victorias, including irrigation, farm-to-market roads, fertilizers, and machinery, Benitez reiterated.
Atilano promised to guide the LGU in making its existing natural resources more investable and build Victorias as the center for food security and agri-business.
AGREA Vice President for Business Operations Sonia Castillo and OIC-City Agriculturist Leni Lacuesta were the witnesses of the ceremonial signing.
Vice Mayor Abelardo Bantug III joined the activity together with councilors Audie Malaga, Hermie Millan, Warlito Undar, Dino Acuña, and Richard Julius Sablan, department heads, and city employees. *