ORMOC CITY – Ormocanon farmers have, accordingly, bagged awards during the Ugmad Awards of the Farmers and Fisherfolks’ Day 2023, which event forms part of the culminating activities of the 99th Visayas State University (VSU) Founding Anniversary.

The awarding ceremony was held at VSU, Baybay City, Leyte on Friday, April 28, 2023.

Accordingly, the Ugmad Awards is VSU’s recognition of the crucial role farmers play in putting food on people’s tables, adding that, “it is only fair that their commitment be recognized and that they are allowed to enjoy the fruits of their labor, to let them reap the rewards of their hard work.”

The said Ormocanon awardees include Edmondo Maloon, who was awarded as the ‘Outstanding Farmer Entrepreneur’, Kasamava Fiaco, who was bestowed the Outstanding Farmer Cooperative, and Lucresio Capangpangan, the Outstanding Jackfruit Farmer.

The City Agriculture Department (CAD) of Ormoc City was also hailed as the first-prize winner of the ‘Best Booth Competition’ in the outside organization category.

The Ugmad Awards, in addition, includes two categories: individual awards and group awards.

Individual winners received PHP 10,000 together with a plaque of recognition, while the Outstanding Farmers Cooperative, Outstanding Fisherfolks Association, and Outstanding Farmer-Entrepreneur each received PHP 30,000.

The Ugmad Awards furthermore is given to deserving individuals and groups working in Eastern Visayas to sustainably develop the agricultural sector and the environment. Finally, it is a means for VSU to recognize the farmers, fishers, and rainforest heroes who have improved farm output while also having an influence on their local communities. By Gwen Maurillo (EV Mail April 24-30, 2023 issue)