The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) deepened its cooperation with the Global United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) to uplift women farmers and volunteers in the global agri-fishery sector.

During its courtesy call to Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on April 27, the Global UNAP delegation, led by its President Ric Cruz, formally presented the Resolution for the Year of Women Farmers, Rangelands, and Pastoralists—a vital declaration that recognizes the indispensable role women play in food security and sustainable agriculture.

The association also introduced the goals and new logo branding of the 2026 UN International Year of Volunteers, which celebrates the selfless individuals who serve as the backbone of communities, including agricultural ones.

The meeting, according to the DA-Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System (GFPS), is a powerful step forward in aligning the country’s local agriculture, gender, and extension initiatives with global milestones—thus ensuring that gender-responsive and inclusive programs remain at the heart of the Philippine agricultural agenda.

The DA-GFPS was represented by its Chairperson, Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Alvin John Balagbag, as well as its National Technical Working Group Chairperson, DA-Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards Director Karen Kristine Roscom, during the said courtesy call. ### (Krystelle Ymari A. Vergara, DA-AFID & DA-GFPS Secretariat)