PASAY CITY - The Dipolog-Polanco Irrigators Association (DPIA) emerged as one of the top five (5) national finalists for the National Irrigation System (NIS) Category in the 50th Gawad Saka Outstanding Agricultural Achievers, receiving national recognition for their exemplary contributions to the country's agriculture sector.
The awarding ceremony, dubbed "Parangal sa mga Natatanging Magsasaka at Mangingisda," was held on May 26, 2025, at the Philippine Trade Training Center, Pasay City. DPIA, represented by its President Mr. Edgardo Cohena, received a plaque of recognition and a Php 3 million cash award. Mr. Cohena was joined by key representatives from the NIA Region: Supervising Irrigators Development Officer Rosielyn Bayawa, ZDN Irrigation Development Head Alvin Dequito, and IDO Bhelmar Batocael.
Organized by the Department of Agriculture's National Rice Program (DA-NRP) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), the Gawad Saka aims to recognize outstanding individuals and groups who have shown dedication, innovation, and sustained excellence in agriculture and fisheries. This milestone not only brings pride to the people of Zamboanga Peninsula but also serves as an inspiration to other irrigators' associations nationwide striving for excellence in the agri-sector.