Agriculture Secretary William Dar lauded the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR)’s milestones during the week-long celebration of its 34th anniversary on 24 August 2021 in Diliman, Quezon City.
Dar graced the event by delivering an inspirational message recognizing the bureau’s efforts over the years saying that, “rising above the adverse effects of the pandemic is a very difficult task [in itself], but as the agency’s founding director, I cannot be more proud to see how DA-BAR evolves and adapts to the changing needs of its stakeholders.”
The banner programs of the bureau were highlighted during Dar’s inspirational message, such as the National Technology Commercialization Program and the Community-based Participatory Action Research program.
Dar also mentioned the successful implementation of the Mentoring and Attracting Youth in Agriculture, popularly known as MAYA program, during the pandemic which was coordinated by DA-BAR.
He also noted how the bureau remained committed despite the pandemic, by handling the Mentoring and Attracting Youth in Agribusiness program as initiated by DA. The program aimed to encourage the youth to engage and venture in agriculture and fisheries.
Lastly, Dar challenged DA-BAR to start conceptualizing about the future agriculture that the country needs to have one generation from now.
“Sama-sama nating itaguyod ang isang Pilipinas na may sapat na pagkain at mga magsasaka’t mangingisdang may maunlad at masaganang buhay sa kabila ng pandemya,” Dar ended.