Four outstanding agricultural achievers from Central Luzon were named National Winners at the 51st Gawad Saka Awards, held on June 29, 2026, at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. The annual search, conducted by the Department of Agriculture (DA), honored 37 individuals and groups nationwide for their exemplary contributions to Philippine agriculture and fisheries.
National Winners from Central Luzon
The four winners from Region III were honored across multiple categories, receiving cash prizes and national recognition for their contributions. Danilo V. Cunanan of Arayat, Pampanga, was recognized as Outstanding Corn-based Farmer, receiving PHP 300,000 for his productivity and corn yield innovations . Randy O. Valerio of Bacolor, Pampanga, was awarded Outstanding Small Animal Raiser Adopting Integrated Farming System and also received PHP 300,000 . His R.O. Valerio Integrated Farm is an accredited learning site for the Agricultural Training Institute and TESDA, where he raises over 300 goats, imported cattle, and buffalo while practicing sustainable agriculture . Ma. Gloria SF Carrillo, Provincial Agriculturist of Bulacan, was named Outstanding Agricultural Extension Manager (Provincial Level) for her leadership in advancing sustainable agricultural programs, receiving PHP 250,000 . Kilusang Lima Para sa Lahat Multipurpose Cooperative (K5 MPC) was honored as Outstanding Rural Financing Institution (Non-bank) with a PHP 1,000,000 cash prize . K5 MPC supports farmers and MSMEs through microfinance, credit, production, trading, and marketing services.
A Prestigious Recognition for Agricultural Excellence
The Gawad Saka, established in 1970, is the Department of Agriculture's highest recognition program for excellence in agriculture and fisheries . It honors individuals and organizations that demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and sustainable practices while contributing to agricultural development and food security . Senator Francis N. Pangilinan, chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, emphasized that this year's awardees have "redefined success in agriculture" by demonstrating that it goes beyond productivity to include community solidarity, innovation, and resilience . The 51st Gawad Saka featured eight categories and 47 subcategories across crops, livestock, fisheries, youth, research, extension, institutions, and cross-cutting initiatives, with winners selected through a rigorous process from the municipal to the national level .
