New DA-WV head stresses need to invest in tech to improve production

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Under a new brand of leadership, the Department of Agriculture (DA) in Western Visayas will prioritize science-based approaches to enhance the potential for increased harvests in the agricultural and fisheries sector in the region.

This is what Dennis Arpia, newly-installed regional executive director (RED) of DA-6, said in his formal turnover ceremony on July 3 at the Western Visayas Integrated Agricultural Research Center (WESVIARC).

“Ang tunay nating trabaho ay magbigay ng technical support sa ating mga kababayan para tumaas ang kanilang agricultural capabilities,” said Dennis Arpia, who was formally installed in a turnover on July 3 at the Western Visayas Integrated Agricultural Research Center (WESVIARC).

Arpia further emphasized that DA should go beyond simply providing seeds or assistance, but also offer technological advancements to help increase local farmers and fisherfolk’s potential for higher yields.

He said he will collaborate closely with the Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division of the department and ensure the use of suitable reporting tools based on information and communication technology.

Arpia has also directed the DA-6 management committee to scale up working technologies and research outcomes that are ready for commercialization in the region. He emphasized the need for the committee to strategically carry out their responsibilities in order to maintain the progress achieved in production and income.

He also noted that DA-6 should act swiftly in the procurement, delivery, and construction of agricultural engineering projects.

“Ang bagong panahon ng DA ay nangangailan ng bilis, kaya kailangan patuloy na magsanay para mas mabilis magdesisyon. Magdesisyon nang marangal,” he added.

Arpia was designated as the new REd of DA-6 under a special order. He replaced then officer-in-charge (OIC) RED Jose Albert Barrogo, who will now remain with DA-6 as regional executive director for operations and extension.

Arpia previously served as RED of DA Zamboanga Peninsula, OIC RED of DA SOCCKSARGEN and assistant regional director for operations of DA CALABARZON.