Two farmers from Pampanga were among the 29 awardees during the 50th Gawad Saka Regional Awarding Ceremony held on May 15, 2025 in Zambales.
Danilo V. Cunanan was awarded as Outstanding Corn Farmer while Randy O. Valerio was recognized as Outstanding Small Animal Raiser Adopting Integrated Farming System.
The duo were awarded ₱30,000 cash each and certificates of recognition from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office III (DA-RFO 3).
The DA lauded Cunanan for his productivity and corn yield innovations.
Valerio was cited for his successful integration of small livestock into a diversified farming system that maximizes land use and income potential.
The Gawad Saka is part of the DA’s annual search for outstanding individuals, cooperatives, and institutions advancing the agriculture and fisheries sectors in the region.
DA Undersecretary Roger V. Navarro, who served as the event’s keynote speaker, congratulated the awardees.
He emphasized the importance of replicating the awardees' best practices
Also present during the event were DA-RFO 3 Regional Executive Director Dr. Eduardo L. Lapuz Jr., and other regional technical directors.
Now on its 50th year, the Gawad Saka program continues to serve as the DA’s platform for honoring excellence and innovation in Philippine agriculture.