President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the distribution on Wednesday of PhP157.9 million in agricultural support to farmers and fisherfolk to boost farm productivity and fight hunger in Ilocos Norte.

The President extended the government assistance during the Marcos Day Celebration in Batac City. The province marked the 107th birthday of former president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., the President’s father.

Speaking during the event, President Marcos said he continues the agriculture programs spearheaded by the late president. He said the current government is working hard to attain its goals for the sector.

“Ang mga tulong na ito ay bahagi lamang ng mas malaking hangarin natin para sa lahat na isang pagkilala sa sipag at sakripisyo na ibinubuhos ninyo sa Ilocos at para sa buong bansa,” he said.

“Every step that we take comes under the the unity that we have forged between the different agencies of our government. Lahat po ay magkasama,” the President added.

The President said the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) are on top of the situation.

Around 1,000 farmers, fishermen, and livestock raisers from different associations in the province received other support like seeds, tractors, fertilizers, fishery paraphernalia, fuel subsidies, and solar-powered irrigation systems worth more than PhP156 million. PND