President Ferdinand “Bong-Bong” Marcos Jr. offers his support to recipients of agricultural equipment provided by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) at the Sulu Provincial Gymnasium on June 5. (Alline Jamar Undikan/BIO)
JOLO, Sulu — President Ferdinand “Bong-Bong” Marcos graced the Sulu Provincial Capitol with his presidential presence on Thursday, June 5, to lead the distribution of cash assistance amounting to P10,000 each to 10,000 deserving beneficiaries from the farming, fishing, and local family communities.
In his address, President Marcos underscored the vital role of the cash assistance, emphasizing its significance as a government subsidy in response to the challenges posed by El Niño.
“Narito kami ngayon upang ihatid sa inyo ang tulong ng pamahalaan, umaagapay sa inyong pagbangon mula sa mga pagsubok na dala ng El Niño at upang mapakinggan ang inyong mga suliranin,” President Marcos said.
[We are here now to deliver to you the assistance of the government, to support you in your recovery from the challenges brought by El Niño, and to listen to your concerns.]
Moreover, President Marcos lauded the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform for their unwavering support, particularly in providing essential machinery to 17 farmers’ associations within the province.
“Kasama din natin ang Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform na maghahandog sa inyo ng karagdagang kagamitan sa pagsasaka,” President Marcos said.
[We are also accompanied by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform, who will provide you with additional farming equipment.]
Acknowledging the pivotal role of the local government unit of Sulu, President Marcos highlighted their dedicated efforts in enhancing the lives of the Tausug people. He praised the collective spirit of collaboration and unity that has been instrumental in driving progress and prosperity in the region.
Expressing his unwavering commitment to the agricultural sector, President Marcos assured that farmers and fisherfolk would receive the necessary support and care they deserved. He eloquently articulated the indispensable contribution of these hardworking individuals in providing sustenance for the nation, emphasizing that they are the backbone of the agricultural industry.
Looking towards the future, President Marcos assured that both his office and the local government units would remain accessible and responsive to the needs of farmers and fisherfolk in Sulu Province.
Saddam M. Abun, one of the beneficiaries, extended his heartfelt thanks to the Office of the President and the Bangsamoro Government for the cash assistance and machinery provided to the local farmers and fishfolk.
“Alhamdulillah muna-muna hitukbal namu in pagsarang-sukul pa Allahu Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala pag-ubos ha nagpajatu sin program bihaini, amuin dihilan nila cash assistance iban mga panyap kalagihan pag-uma iban mga hipag-ipat manuk,” Abun said.
[All praise be to Allah, first and foremost, we thank Allah and then those who spearheaded this program where they provided cash assistance and the necessary tools for farming and poultry care.]
Also present during the event are key officials, including Secretary Antonio F. Lagdameo Jr.,Special Assistant to the President, Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. of Department of Agriculture, Secretary Rexlon T. Gatchalian of Department of Social Welfare and Development, Secretary Benjamin D.C. Abalos Jr. of Department of the Interior and Local Government and Secretary Cheloy E. Velicaria-Garafil, of the Presidential Communications Office.
President Bong-Bong Marcos’ visit to Sulu Province stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity, symbolizing a new chapter of progress and prosperity for the resilient communities of the BARMM Region. (Alline Jamar M. Undikan/BIO)
