In recognition of its steadfast support to agricultural advancement and rural community empowerment through interagency collaboration, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Regional Office 8 was honored as one of the Outstanding Partners under the National Government Agencies Category during the Pasidungog 8, part of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Eastern Visayasโ 127th Anniversary Celebration held on July 7, 2025, at the Peopleโs Center and Library in Tacloban City.
The award affirms DILG Region 8’s pivotal role in promoting agricultural development and food security at the grassroots level. Through its sustained engagement with local government units (LGUs), the DILG has served as a key partner in mainstreaming agriculture in their local development planning and governance processes.
Receiving the plaque of recognition on behalf of Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe was Local Government Capacity Development Division (LGCDD) Chief Ms. Rudith A. Roca, who heads the division overseeing capacity building for LGUs and local officials.
The continued collaboration between DILG and DA has been instrumental in integrating agriculture into local governance systems โ aligning local mechanisms with food security goals and enhancing the capabilities of local leaders to champion agri-fisheries development in their respective areas.
The recognition also echoes the leadership direction of RD Agabe, who consistently highlights the value of interagency collaboration in realizing national goals at the local level:
โThis recognition is a testament to what government agencies can achieve when they work together with shared purpose. Interagency collaboration is not only strategicโit is essential in ensuring that services reach our farmers and fisherfolk. By aligning our efforts with those of our partners like the DA, we help LGUs build communities that are food-secure, resilient, and self-reliant.โ
With the theme โPagpupugay at Pasasalamat: 127 Taon ng Serbisyong Pang-agrikulturaโ, the DA’s anniversary celebration paid tribute to institutional milestones and the dedication of individuals, LGUs, and national agencies whose collective actions are shaping a more food-secure Eastern Visayas.
DILG Region 8 remains steadfast in its commitment to building responsive and inclusive local governance. Its ongoing partnership with DA stands as a cornerstone in the shared pursuit of sustainable, community-driven agricultural development across the region.
