Agri chief urge LGUs to hold 'vegetable seeds derby'

by Rachelle M. Nessia

Agriculture Sec. Proceso Alcala

DUMAGUETE CITY, August 6 (PIA) --- Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala urged local chief executives nationwide to host vegetable seeds derbies in their areas to promote quality vegetable production in the countryside. 

During the opening of the 9th National Vegetable Congress at the Negros Oriental Convention Center in Dumaguete City on August 5, Sec. Alcala challenged the local government officials to invite vegetable seeds growers and producers in their areas to a derby of their products. 

“Don't just take the word of their agents. Test their seeds by holding a derby so they can demonstrate their production system and show off their best vegetable seeds,” Sec. Alcala said. 

A regular derby for seeds growers and producers will ensure seeds that are automatically adaptable to your areas, he added. 

In his speech, Sec. Alcala expressed his delight over the variety of high quality seeds put on display during the exhibit of vegetable seeds and products from seeds growers and producers around the country. 

Around 500 key players from the vegetable industry in the Philippines participated in the three-day congress from August 3 to 5 with this year's theme: “Quality and Sage Vegetables: Key to Economic Growth”. 

Alcala noted how gatherings like the congress stimulate the sharing of good agricultural practices to further improve the vegetable industry in the country. (RMN/PIA Negros Oriental)