By Melanie R. Parel
The National Tobacco Administration (NTA) reiterated its commitment of supporting the farmers to earn higher income through addressing all farming – related concerns during the celebration of the 8th Mannalon Festival of Marcos, Ilocos Norte on March 14.
NTA Administrator and CEO Belinda S. Sanchez, who was the festival’s keynote speaker, acknowledged the challenges that the farmers currently facing from the effect of climate change and the rising costs of production to fluctuating market prices.
“As an NTA administrator, I assure you that we are steadfast in our commitment to supporting our farmers. The NTA is working tirelessly to ensure that our tobacco growers receive the necessary assistance, as stated in our mandate, to increase income and uplift the lives of the tobacco farmers,” she said.
Speaking in front of a large audience of agricultural stakeholders, local officials, and farmers from the 13 barangays of Marcos town, Administrator Sanchez reassured the agency’s continuous support to the farmers through agricultural training programs, financial aid, and sustainable agricultural projects.
Anchored on the theme “Ti kinaanep ni Mannalon, Pagbiagan Manayon”, the festival speaks of the perseverance, resilience, dedication of the farmers and the invaluable contributions of the farmers, who are the lifeblood of the Philippine economy and agricultural heritage.
“Our farmers are the backbone of our nation. They are the stewards of life, not only cultivators. Their hard work sustains our families and drives our local economy. The Mannalon Festival is not just a celebration—it is a testament to the unwavering spirit of our agricultural community,” Sanchez added.
For his part, Marcos town Mayor Antonio Mariano assured in his speech that the local government unit of Marcos will complement the NTA’s commitment of support to the farmers.
“We will continue to push for better agricultural programs, improved infrastructure, and financial assistance to ensure that farming remains a sustainable and thriving profession,” he said.
“To all our mannalon (farmers), your efforts are seen, valued, and honored. You are the foundation of our community’s strength, and through your hands, our land flourishes. Without you, there would be no harvest, no livelihood, and no future for the next generation.” Mayor Mariano added.
Nestor C. Casela, the NTA’s Deputy Administrator for Operations (DAOP), highlighted the advantages of having a share from the Republic Act 7171 (RA 7171) tobacco excise tax fund.
“The renovation of this (municipal building) is proof that RA 7171 is truly making a difference in the lives of our farmers. It is not just about infrastructure; it is about investing in the future of agriculture through farmers’ training and livelihood programs, and ensuring that our farmers have access to better resources and opportunities,” he said.
Along with Administrator Sanchez and DAOP Casela, the other NTA staff who attended the festival were Executive Assistant Elnesto Policar, Engr. Randy I. Abella – the manager of NTA Ilocos Norte, and Engr. Johnny Maloom – the manager of the Farm Technology and Services Department (FTSD). (fgl/Melanie Rapiz-Parel)