The Presidential Communications Office, in collaboration with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), inaugurated a series of regional Post-SONA Forums. The inaugural event, titled Agkaykaysa iti gobierno ken umili a mangitandudo iti Panagdur-as ti Agrikultura iti Rehiyon Uno, took place at the Laoag City Multi-Purpose Hall, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on September 13, 2023.

The primary objective of this gathering was to amplify the key points from President Ferdinand E. Marcos Jr.’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA). Mr. Kevin Sibul and Ms. Rochelle Verganio represented DMMMSU, signifying a strengthened partnership between PIA and DMMMSU.

During the event, Dr. Mercedita A. Sombilla, Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, Research, and Regulations at the Department of Agriculture, emphasized the significance of the agricultural sector, a topic highlighted in President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr.’s SONA. Dr. Sombilla stressed the necessity of expanding the value chain within the sector.

The forum drew participation from more than 300 attendees, including farmers, fisherfolks, regional line agencies, local government units, senior citizens, youth groups, academia, and the general public. One notable feature of the event was the provision of essential services and the launch of the KADIWA ng Pangulo booth. The PIA Executive Directorate, led by Director-General Jose Torres Jr., Deputy Director-General Katherine Chloe Castro, and Deputy Director-General Adolfo Ares Gutierrez, also graced the occasion. (By RMV)