BAGO City Mayor Nicholas Yulo on Monday said the City Government is banking on further developing its agriculture sector to boost the local economy.
Yulo, who led the opening of this year’s Agro-Industrial, Cultural and Educational Fair at the Bantayan Park in Barangay Poblacion on Monday, said they are currently stepping up efforts to modernize and provide livelihood through agriculture.
“Ninety percent of our people rely on this industry for a living whether in farming, fisheries, and livestock thus, we are working on providing them more opportunities to improve their income,” he said.
As contribution to the provincial government’s food security agenda, the southern Negros city is also being positioned to become the agro-industrial and ecotourism center of the province, the mayor added.
Dubbed “One Barangay, One Product,” the agro-fair also officially opened the 10-day celebration of the city’s 51st Charter Anniversary, which runs from February 10 to 19.
The activity features agricultural products of the 24 barangays displayed at their respective booths and pavilions.
Gawad Saka and Organic Achiever awardee Pastor Jerry Dionson, who hails from Bago City, was the guest speaker during the opening ceremonies.
In his speech, Dionson urged his fellow farmers to work hard and continue growing their love for agriculture, especially organic farming.
Yulo said that aside from promoting the city’s agricultural products, the agro-fair is also a celebration of Dionson’s success which could be an inspiration to other farmers in the city.
“Our economy greatly depends on agriculture thus, more efforts are needed for its further development,” the mayor further said.
Yulo said that Senator Cynthia Villar will be the keynote speaker during the charter day celebration on February 19.
Yulo said they will lobby to Villar, former chairman of the Senate committee on agriculture and food, more asistance to improve the city’s agriculture sector.
“With her advocacies on agriculture, we are optimistic to get any assistance from the senator,” he also said.
Activities during this day include parade Farmer’s Day, Babaylan Festival Dance Competition, Bantayan Park Food Market, and Awarding and Closing Ceremonies for the agro-fair, among others.
This year’s charter anniversary celebration is themed “Together in Quest for the Best, Go Bago!”