THE Integrated Sugarcane Growers of Negros Inc. (ISGNI) commemorated its 53rd year of service to its planter-members at the Sala Grande Convention Hall, Resorts Negrense in Punta Taytay, Bacolod City on September 15.

The association celebrated the anniversary with its annual general assembly, election of officers and raffle draw.

“Thirteen planters founded this association 53 years ago. Presently, I am the only one left among the 13 founders. Thank God, after 53 years, we are still here, sincerely serving our planter-members equally and fairly, regardless of their farm size or status in life,” said ISGNI president Enrique Rojas, who is concurrently the president of the National Federation of Sugarcane Planters (NFSP).

“All these years, we have survived the ups and downs of the sugar industry and, thanks to your valued support and confidence in our leadership, our association has survived for more than 50 years now. As your president, I assure you that your association and all its officers will always have your best interests in our hearts and minds,” Rojas further said.

Almost 300 planter-members attended the assembly. They did not come home empty-handed, as ISGNI gave away numerous door prizes consisting of farm implements and household appliances, which were raffled off at intervals during the business meeting. Four major prizes were also raffled off.

Winners of the major prizes were: first prize (motorcycle) – Elena Zaragoza of Hda. Nato, Murcia; second prize (refrigerator) – Imelda Sotana of Hda. Singalong, Murcia; third prize (LED TV) – Nelfa Perla of Hda. Singalong, Murcia; and fourth prize (mobile phone) – Rodelico Moren of Hda. Lulu, Murcia.

Moreover, ISGNI elected its Board of Directors for Crop Year 2018-2019, composed of Enrique Rojas, Francis Rojas, Jose Jerry Garaygay, Betty Ditching, Augurio Ledesma, Enrique Rojas, Jr., Jose Ma. Benedicto, Roy Rio, Murcia Vice Mayor Victor Gerardo Rojas and Romeo Mollenido. (PR)