RCCI’s 1st Rinconada Farmers’ Congress set

By Jason B. Neola IRIGA CITY --- The Rinconada Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), after it was established in December 2017, is continuously holding meetings with representatives and agriculture officers of the local government units (LGUs) in the Rinconada area, or the 5th congressional district of Camarines Sur, with regards to the planned holding of the first-ever Rinconada Farmers Congress on April, this year. The congress, which will serve as a facility for farmers and local businessmen to grow and expand their industry, will be the RCCI’s initial activity right after its inception late last year. The 2-day event which will be participated in by all the 7 LGUs in Rinconada aims to help existing businesses and farmlands to maximize their potentials in terms of modernized method of farming, innovative product development, and more aggressive marketing strategies with an end in view of expanding their reach and product marketability. Atty. Santiago Ortega, RCCI founding chairman, said that his business group is working collaboratively with the city government of Iriga, the regional office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and other stakeholders to be able to strengthen the operations of the local agriculture industry in the area. “One of our approaches to realize this goal is the farmers’ congress which carries consultative discussions, technical support, various capacity building development, start up trainings, and other related activities that will help to open more opportunities in Rinconada and spur its socio-economic growth,” he said. The Rinconada area comprises the towns of Bula, Baao, Nabua, Buhi, Bato, Balatan and the city of Iriga whose economy is primarily agriculture-based, mostly in the production of rice, corn, coconut, feed meal, inland fishing, and livestock. Trading, buy-and-sell and reselling of goods and merchandise are also predominant economic activities. RCCI President Rolly Abion said that the dates as to when the congress will be held are to be decided yet depending on the availability of DAR Secretary Manny Piñol who is the congress’ guest speaker. “The event has 5 plenaries which will deliberate on major issues that will showcase and promote the farm products of Rinconada, introduce new farm equipments and technologies that will enhance awareness of the latest trend in productive farming, and attract the participation of government and private banks to offer credit and loan opportunities to farmers and micro and small entrepreneurs,” Abion said. The RCCI advisory council is composed of Atty. Santiago Ortega as chairman, Engr. Solomon C. Ngo as vice-chairman, Ernesto Abragan, Simeon Bonacua, and Benito Ngo along with the 7 LGU Mayors of Rinconada, as members.