PGLU EMPOWERS YOUTH IN AGRI-LA UNAY FOR ELYU YOUNG AGRIPRENEURS

August 24, 2024 Provincial

SAN FERNANDO, La Union

As part of the 2024 Linggo ng Kabataan Celebration, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) launched the first Agri La Unay for eLyU Young Agriprenuers on August 13 and 15, 2024, at the Speaker Pro Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center, Sevilla, City of San Fernando, La Union. The event aimed to encourage youth sectors to actively engage in and support the agricultural and entrepreneurial fields, aligning with the PGLU’s Vision, “La
Union, the Heart of Agritourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.”

The Symposium on Youth Agripreneurship was attended by 84 aspiring and young agripreneurs, along with their
Municipal Sangguninang Kabataan Chairpersons. The symposium featured presentations from Mr. Prince Nonesa of the 4-H Club and Ms. Zyjazz D. De Guzman, Provincial Youth Development Officer III where they discussed Youth
Empowerment through Organizations: Cultivating the Next Generation of Farmers; Farming Opportunities: Exploring the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals; and Modern Farming: Amplifying Youth Participation and Innovation.

Gov. Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David, represented by Executive Assistant Dr. Elaezar Belgica; along with Board Member and PSSK President Hon. Harold Dave E. Sibuma; Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Mr. Ranilo P. Ipac; and Provincial Agriculture Officer-In-Charge Ms. Sharon A. Viloria; delivered motivational messages to the participants. They emphasized the PGLU’s commitment to supporting young leaders in La Union through the implementation of the Provincial Youth Development Plan and the ongoing efforts to establish a Provincial Youth and Sports Development Office. They reinforced that “Ang KABATAAN ay Pag-asa at Kinabukasan ng Bayan.”

A Pitch Presentation was attended by 55 participants wherein 11 showcased their agriprenuerial projects, each
presenting their innovative ideas for advancing the agricultural sector and fostering community development. The participants elaborated on their respective products, services, or technologies, emphasizing their sustainability, feasibility, and potential benefits to the community. Ms. Geneva Gañalon and Ms. Razel Mondejar of Bacnotan were recognized as the Champions for their project From Waste to Worth: Zero Waste Innovative Sustainable
Approach to Organic Farming, receiving Php 30,000.00.

The first Runner-Up was awarded to Balaoan’s Mr. Frederick Uyaan for his Climate Resilient Facility for Oyster Mushroom Production receiving Php 20,000.00; and the second Runner-Up was given to Bagulin’s Mr. Arbel Russ Inggo and Agoo’s Mr. Mark Lester S. Carrea’s project Sweetened Grated Coconut Flakes Brittle receiving each Php 15,000.00. All winners also received a plaque, and a medal while consolation prizes and T-Shirts were also awarded to all the participants. “I am confident in the capabilities of the youth in leading a brighter and more sustainable agricultural landscape of La Union. You are the present and future of La Union’s agriculture,” says Gov. Rafy.

The Agri-La Unay for Young Agripreneurs not only provided valuable learning and networking opportunities but also reinforced the commitment of the PGLU to fostering the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs in the
agricultural industry through La Union PROBINSYAnihan.

Zenaida D. Sellem, GPC-PSWDO