MANILA – Government and farmers organizations rejected the proposed privatization of irrigation services in the country, a government press release said.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said he will not support any plans to privatize irrigation services as it might affect the country's food security.

He noted the DA is implementing an early planting program, so "how could private entities support this program? We need the IAs’ (Irrigation Associations) support."

Capitol to give
out 14 agri citations

The Province of Negros Occidental is giving out 14 major awards for the Panaad Pasidungog sa Panguma, Pangisda, kag Pagsagod Kasapatan 2012 in April with 23 local government units nominated, Dina Genzola, senior agriculturist and program chair, said yesterday.

The LGUs will vie for the title of Outstanding LGU, Outstanding Rice Farmer, Outstanding Corn Farmer, Outstanding Young Farmer, Outstanding Organic Farmer Association, Outstanding Agricultural Extension Worker, Outstanding Home Maker, and Outstanding Vegetable Farmer awards.

Outstanding citations will also be given for Fisherman, Outstanding Tilapya Farmer, Outstanding Bangus Farmer, Outstanding Marine Fishery, Outstanding FARMC, and Outstanding Bantay Dagat Task Force.

TESDA to launch
job plan for grads

As part of Technical Education Skills Development Authority aim to achieve inclusive growth through descent and productive work for Filipino people, the TESDA of Negros Occidental and Kabankalan City will launch a program for TVET selected certified TESDA graduates who are officially part of the TESDA Spesyalista Technopreneurship Program or Samahang Spesyalista ng TESDA in Automotive Services in Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, a press release from the agency said.

The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement and Turnover of Toolkits to beneficiaries by TESDA and opening of Contact Center is on April 2, during the launching ceremony.