Mt Prov hosts Cordillera Irrigators Federation gab

By Shannon Anthea S. Pagaduan

 

BONTOC, Mountain Province - Mountain Province hosted the Cordillera Administrative Region Federation of Irrigators’ Associations (CARFIA) in its annual congress, marking the federation’s first convention in the province Jan. 16 here at the Governor Leonard G. Mayaen Sports Complex.

The congress brought together over a hundred farmer-leaders from the six provinces of the Cordillera region—Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, and Kalinga—as well as delegates from the Upper Chico River Irrigation System (UCRIS)-Tabuk and UCRIS-Quezon.

Despite the travel challenges, their enthusiasm and active participation marked the opening day’s activities.

Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., welcomed participants citing importance of irrigation systems in ensuring food security and fostering sustainable development in the Cordillera.

"Irrigation systems are lifelines of our Cordilleran farmers, playing a crucial role in sustaining food security and fostering sustainable growth. These are not just water management systems; they are vital investments for the future generations of our communities,” he said.

Tudlong thanked CARFIA for selecting Bontoc as congress venue and urged participants to explore the town’s tourist destinations during their stay.

In his message, Mountain Province Gov. Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr., highlighted significance of agriculture to the region, saying large portion of Cordillera population relies on farming for their livelihood.

"This annual gathering is a vital platform for fostering collaboration not only with the government but also with private sector stakeholders," he said.

The governor echoed Tudlong’s sentiments and urged participants to enjoy the natural beauty of Bontoc before returning to their respective provinces.

Meanwhile, Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Samson Ezra Gomez, president of Montañosa Federated Irrigators’ Association (MOFIA), cited importance of the congress in strengthening the unity and collective efforts of irrigators' associations across the Cordilleras.

“We are not just a mere organization. We are the channel for change and progress that leads the farming community and our country to a better future. The driving force of our country’s economy is the agriculture sector and with our unity and active cooperation in this CARFIA congress, we continue to pursue greatness for a better life and development of the farming community,” he said.

Political Affairs officer Dionisio Wacdisen, representing Rep. Maximo Dalog, Jr., urged delegates to embody the spirit of brotherhood in making a vital change to the agriculture sector under the theme "Irrigators Association Kooperatiba: Daan para Guminhawa and Buhay ng mga Magsasaka.”

He cited need for collective action to address the impacts of climate change, which are increasingly affecting the Cordillera region.

Adding excitement to the occasion, delegates from Abra showcased their rich culture through a traditional dance performance, bringing joy and energy to the event.

The Provincial Pattong Group and Provincial Choral Group also wowed the audience with their presentations.