CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The City Government of San Fernando on Monday recognized 10 farmers for their outstanding performance in promoting sustainable farming and livestock.

City Agriculturist Cristina Sangumay said the activity marks the beginning of Fernandino Farmer’s Week celebration in line with this year’s Pyestang Fernandino.

The winners are Joselito Gopez (Outstanding Rice Farmer), Orlando Salvador (Outstanding Fisherfolk), Reynaldo Tiglao (Outstanding Corn Farmer), Jesus Tulabut (Outstanding Livestock Farmer) and Marcelino Musni (Outstanding HDCVP Farmer).

Farmers with extraordinary products were also recognized. They are Joewer Serrano (Longest Upo), Eduardo Manalo (Biggest and Heaviest Papaya), Francisco Tancio (Biggest and Heaviest Kalabasa), Jayson Garcia (Biggest Mango and Longest Eggplant) and Orlando Salvador (Heaviest Tilapia).

Mayor Edwin Santiago said farmers are the key players in attaining food security through their efforts and innovations in increasing agricultural productivity.

“Mahalaga po na bigyang pagkilala ang mga natatanging magsasaka dahil sila ang mga katuwang ng syudad upang masiguro na ang bawat Fernandino ay may masaganang pamumuhay (It is important that we give recognition to our farmers because they are our partners to ensure that every Fernandino will have a abundant life),” Santiago said.

Aside from the awarding, CAVO also opened its agricultural trade fair in front of the City Hall where crops and products of the farmers were up for sale. (Ian Ocampo Flora)