Governor Bong Lacson lauded the awardees and nominees during the 4th Provincial Rural Women Summit and Awarding Ceremony for Rural Women, at Negros Residences Function Hall in Bacolod City, this morning.
“To all nominees and to all our awardees, congratulations! These awards are affirmations of what you are doing right. May this event renew our commitment and inspire us to do more for sustainability, livelihood, and food security,” he said.
Gov. Lacson added, “Women consistently innovate, adapt, and find solutions to ensure food security at home. Now, imagine the transformative impact they could have on the agriculture sector if they had access to the education, skills training and market knowledge they need to thrive.”
The awardees were recognized for their utmost dedications and exemplary contributions in agriculture, fishery, food production and food safety in relation to the celebration of the United Nations’ International Day for Rural Women with the theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.”.
Outstanding Rural Women 2024 were Haydee T. Panhilason, Marilyn B, Guillen, Ana Mae V. Gabales, Mary Ann G. Villafuerte, Lourdes G. Leal, Jorchel Jane B. Navarte and Maricar L. Marcial.
Outstanding Rural Women Entreprenuer 2024 were Lanie A. Pagador, Elenin A. Niogan and Rolinda B. Cogonon.
Outstanding Rural Improvement Club (RIC) – Organization were Brgy. Cod-cod United Women’s Association, Brgy. Bubog Cottage Industry Workers Association (BBCIWA).
Most Promising Product 2024 awardeess were Yruanne S. Urbanozo, Rizalinda S. Grijaldo, Sheila Ana A. Cagalitan, May Flower C. Jungco, and Annabel M. Guani.
Most Innovative Product 2024 awardees were Ma. Corazon D. regla, Leny P. Aliluya, Ginalyn S. Mayordo, and Lylyn V. Navarra.
Best Provincial Agri-Fishery Organization Implementor on Livelihood/GAD with Good Practices was awarded to Nida B. Bringas of Can-itom Integrated Fisherfolk Association (CAIFA).
Regional Achiever – RIC Member were Annie B. Ibardolaza of Brgy. XII, Victorias City, 1st Place Filipino Food Month Culinary Olympic Contest; San Antonio Farmers and Farm Workers Association, Regional Special Citation Award Best Performing Rural Based Organization; and Beatriz R. Lastimoso, from Brgy. Cod-cod, San Carlos City Regional Special Citation Award Best Performing Rural Based Organization.
The event was spearheaded by the Provincial Government Rural Improvement Club (RIC), Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (Home Management Division) and GAD Focal Point System.
Also present at the activity were 6th District Rep. Mercedes “Cheding” Alvarez who was the keynote speaker, Board Member Rita Gatuslao, Executive Assistant to the Governor and PGFPS Action Officer Marie June Castro, OIC Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Dina Genzola, among others.
