Tamlang Valley Agriculture Project: NOCCI & Negros Oriental Collaboration

In a significant stride towards fostering agricultural growth and resilience in Negros Oriental, the Provincial Government, in collaboration with the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), orchestrated a two-day Consultative Forum and Planning Workshop. The event convened a diverse array of regional and local stakeholders in agriculture and economic development, reaffirming the commitment to the Tamlang Valley Sustainable Agriculture for Growth and Resiliency Project. This momentous gathering, led by Negros Oriental Governor Manuel Sagarbarria, marked a crucial step in orchestrating a comprehensive, whole-of-government strategy for the successful implementation of the Tamlang Valley Project.

The distinguished participants included Provincial Administrator Atty. Arthur Fran Tolcidas, Vice-Governor Jake Reyes, Board Members Woodrow Maquiling, Sr., Kit Mark Adanza, Jessica Jane Villanueva, Siegfred Buagas, PPDO Head Engr. Ingo Ash Julian Mercado, Former NEDA-7 RD Efren Carreon, Provincial Agriculturist Emmanuel Caduyac, DA Asst. Director Joel Elumba, APCO Alejandro Rafal, URSUMCO Consultant Mario Palma, PENRO Viernov Grifalde, CENRO Richard Fabre, NORSU VP for Administration Dr. Noel Marjon Yasi, NEDA-7 Paul Agir, Valencia MAO Lindon Escalante, DAR PARPO 1 Engr. Manuel Galon, PARCCOM Rep. Rolly Ylor Balbuena, PIA-Negros Oriental Center Manager Jennifer Tilos, PCA-7, NIA-7, PHILFIDA-7, AFP, and the PNP-Negros Oriental.

The Tamlang Valley Sustainable Agriculture for Growth and Resiliency Project holds immense promise for Negros Oriental, aspiring to be a beacon of agricultural innovation and sustainability. The Consultative Forum and Planning Workshop provided a unique platform for key stakeholders to converge, deliberate, and strategize towards a unified approach to project implementation.

Governor Manuel Sagarbarria, in his opening remarks, emphasized the significance of collaboration and the collective responsibility of various government agencies and local bodies in ensuring the success of the Tamlang Valley Project. The diverse composition of attendees, ranging from agricultural experts to local administrators, reflected the commitment to a multi-faceted approach aimed at addressing the complex challenges faced by the agricultural sector.

Provincial Administrator Atty. Arthur Fran Tolcidas highlighted the necessity of synergy among government agencies, private enterprises, and local communities for the holistic development of Tamlang Valley. He underscored the importance of integrating the collective expertise and resources of all stakeholders to propel the project towards sustainable success.

Throughout the two-day event, participants engaged in robust discussions, sharing insights, and contributing valuable perspectives. The agenda encompassed a comprehensive review of the Tamlang Valley Project, from its inception to the current status, laying the groundwork for a unified vision moving forward. The workshop also delved into specific components of the project, such as the identification of key challenges, resource allocation, and the formulation of actionable strategies.

Engr. Ingo Ash Julian Mercado, Head of the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO), provided a detailed overview of the Tamlang Valley Project, elucidating its core objectives and anticipated impact on the province’s agricultural landscape. He emphasized the need for innovative solutions to address existing challenges and the importance of sustained collaboration among stakeholders.

The Consultative Forum served as a conduit for various agencies to express their commitment to the Tamlang Valley Project. Representatives from the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), among others, shared their perspectives on how their respective agencies could contribute to the project’s success.

The event facilitated networking and collaboration among stakeholders, fostering an environment of shared responsibility and accountability. The exchange of ideas and collaborative spirit witnessed during the Consultative Forum demonstrated a collective commitment to overcoming challenges and achieving sustainable growth in Tamlang Valley.

As the Tamlang Valley Sustainable Agriculture for Growth and Resiliency Project evolves, the Consultative Forum and Planning Workshop stand as a testament to the dedication and collaborative spirit of Negros Oriental’s diverse stakeholders. The harmonious integration of expertise, resources, and perspectives has set the stage for a comprehensive and effective strategy for the project’s successful implementation.

The Consultative Forum and Planning Workshop orchestrated by the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental and NOCCI represented a pivotal moment in the pursuit of sustainable agricultural development. With a diverse array of stakeholders coming together, the event not only showcased the collective commitment to the Tamlang Valley Project but also laid the foundation for a collaborative and inclusive approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

As Tamlang Valley Project takes strides towards becoming a beacon of agricultural innovation, the shared vision and collaboration witnessed during this workshop set the tone for a resilient and prosperous future for Negros Oriental.