Antique: The Antique Provincial Board has put forward a request for the institutionalization of the Agricultural and Fishery Council (AFC) as an advisory body, proposing its inclusion as a regular member of the provincial and local development councils.

According to Philippines News Agency, the provincial board passed a resolution, authored by Vice Governor Edgar Denosta, addressed to Governor Rhodora Cadiao. The request was made during the board's regular session, highlighting the importance of integrating the priorities of farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders into local planning, programming, and budgeting.

Board Member Mayella Mae Plameras-Ladislao, who co-sponsored the resolution, emphasized the significance of the AFC's role. "Joint Memorandum Circular Number 1, series of 2016, issued by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, highlights the importance of AFC participation in fostering transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in implementing agriculture and fishery-related programs and projects," the resolution noted.

The institutionalization is expected to strengthen partnerships with local government units and ensure that agriculture and fishery concerns are prioritized. This move aims to contribute to poverty reduction, sustainable development, and food security in the province.

Ladislao further noted that Governor Rhodora Cadiao has been a strong advocate for empowering the agriculture and fishery sectors, recognizing their crucial role in the socio-economic development of Antique. The resolution also requests the provincial government to allocate sufficient funds in the annual budget to support AFC operations, covering administrative expenses, capacity-building activities, logistical support, and monitoring and evaluation activities.

Additionally, the Department of the Interior and Local Government has been urged to provide technical guidance and assistance to the AFC in governance-related matters.