President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared July of every year as “Philippine Agriculturists’ Month” as part of the administration’s efforts to recognize the invaluable contribution of the agriculturists and to raise public awareness of the agricultural sector.

In a two-page Proclamation No. 544 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin on May 10, President Marcos highlighted the significant role of the agricultural sector in ensuring food security and fostering environmental protection and balanced urban and rural development.

“The celebration of the Philippine Agriculturists’ Month will engage professional agriculturists in agricultural advocacy, policy research and formulation, and provide an avenue for enterprise-building, communications training, and community development,” President Marcos said in signing Proclamation No. 544.

“Recognizing the contributions of agriculturists and highlighting their importance through a dedicated month will honor their hard work and dedication, and raise awareness about the significance of the agricultural sector in enhancing nationwide agricultural productivity and competitiveness,” he added.

President Marcos ordered the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and its Board of Agriculture to lead, coordinate, and supervise the observance of Philippine Agriculturists’ Month and identify the programs, activities and projects for its annual celebration.

All government agencies, instrumentalities, Government-Owned or-Controlled Corporations (GOCCS), government financial institutions, state universities and colleges, and the local government units and private sector are directed and encouraged, respectively, to observe Philippine Agriculturists’ Month. | PND