VICTORIASANON FARMERS SHINE AT 4TH PROVINCIAL RURAL WOMEN SUMMIT

Victoriasanon women farmers are making waves in Negros Occidental as two exceptional farmers from Victorias City receive top honors during the 4th Provincial Rural Women Summit held at Negros Residences on October 18.

Haydee Panhilason of Hacienda Kapawa, Barangay X, was named this year's Provincial Outstanding Rural Woman for her leadership in promoting organic farming.

Her efforts have significantly boosted her community’s agricultural output, contributing to the overall growth of Victorias City’s economy.

Annie Ibardolaza from Hacienda Dacumon, Barangay XII, was also celebrated during the summit for clinching 1st Place in the Regional Filipino Food Month Culinary Olympic Contest held last April in Iloilo City.

Her unique dish, the "Banana Lollipop," earned her recognition as a culinary innovator, proudly representing Negros Occidental on the regional stage.

Both Panhilason and Ibardolaza received the award alongside RIC Assisting Coordinator Dieza Etchon, further highlighting Victorias City's dedication to empowering its women farmers.

Meanwhile, Lanie Pagador of La Castellana was recognized as the Provincial Outstanding Rural Woman Entrepreneur, emphasizing the diversity of talents among the province's rural women.

The summit, themed “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”, served as a platform to honor women farmers across Negros Occidental for their role in promoting food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

It underscored the vital contribution of women to the province’s economy and rural development.

Key messages of empowerment and support were delivered by OIC-Provincial Agriculturist Dina Genzola, who gave the welcome address, and Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, who delivered an inspirational message.

Congresswoman Mercedes Alvarez of the 6th District served as the event’s keynote speaker, reinforcing the importance of supporting women farmers.

Representatives from the Victorias City Agriculture Office also graced the event, including OIC-City Agriculturist Leni Lacuesta, MPA, Agricultural Extension Workers (AEW)/ Rural Improvement Club (RIC) Assisting Technician Ruthsie Despues, and AEW Documentor Jessa Francisco, alongside RIC Women’s Association leaders Emilyn Perez, Victoria Regondola, and Maricel Calbonera.

The Provincial Rural Women Summit continues to be a significant platform for recognizing the outstanding contributions of women farmers, not only as stewards of sustainable farming but as key drivers of economic progress in Negros Occidental. *

Photos by the City Agriculture's Office

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