Recognized as a champion of agricultural development and supporter of science-based researches and innovations, Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary William Dar was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree in Development Administration by the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) on Friday.
Dar said DMMMSU, located in Bacnotan, La Union, has helped the DA in the promotion and development of agricultural technologies.
“I receive this award with a challenge for all of you. This institution, the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, remains close to my heart because you have proven, time and again, how reliable you are when it comes to being an ally of the Department in the promotion and development of agricultural technologies,” he said during the conferment ceremony aired online.
He said he received his degree with the farmers and fisherfolk in “my mind and in my heart” as they have been pillars of emergency response of the national government during extra trying times.
“I also take this personal mission to an even broader scope, to look after the food security of all Filipinos,” he said.
He said the country’s “food heroes” are at the center of DA’s programs and projects.
In July 2021, Dar led the groundbreaking ceremony of the P10-million swine multiplier farm at DMMMSU.
It serves as a learning center for the students and provides extension support services and enhances policy advocacies aimed at producing and providing quality hogs for the province and nearby areas.
The DA office in Region 1 also provided an additional PHP10 million funding for a modernized center to cater to the needs of DMMMSU.
Aside from the multiplier farm, DA awarded DMMMSU a farm-to-market road (FMR) project worth PHP37.5M, a road development project leading to the multiplier farm worth PHP8 million, a demonstration farm and training center worth PHP4.875 million, and various farm machineries and equipment valued at PHP3 million.
Dar likewise committed another PHP25 million to fund a proposed FMR.
“DMMMSU, I believe, is a breeding ground for scientists, agriculturists, and extension experts that can work on the ground, introspecting relationships between scientists and farmers, and bringing science to the fields. It is with an abiding faith in your institution that you will succeed in delivering the greater good, whatever the odds may be. Continue honing among the younger generation such an innate love for our lands and waters, where life springs,” he said in his speech.
Source: Philippines News Agency