South Cotabato, Philippines – The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG)–South Cotabato was awarded Best Presenter under the Food Systems and Resilience parallel session during the 2025 National Extension Conference held on October 8–9, 2025, at Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite.
Representing the Province of South Cotabato, Paula Joy G. Candido, Agriculturist I, presented the study titled “Reframing Inclusive Development through the Consolidated Rice Production and Mechanization Program in South Cotabato.”
The paper highlights how extension interventions can serve as a unifying framework to promote inclusivity, collaboration, and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
The presentation underscored the core of extension research—bridging people, knowledge, and practice—as the foundation for developing an inclusive and participatory system.
“This framework supports the province’s Consolidated Rice Production and Mechanization Program, which aims to empower farmers, enhance productivity, and strengthen community partnerships that contribute to food security and resilience,” Candido explained.
Candido shared the highlight of her presentation, stating that, “The presentation emphasizes how extension research bridges people, knowledge, and practice.”
She also expressed her gratitude for the collective efforts behind the achievement.
“I am deeply humbled to be recognized as the Best Presenter in this event. This recognition reflects the clarity and relevance of our work—especially as we advocate for food security, resilience, and economic adaptation in our province.”
Candido emphasized that the award reflects the shared commitment of the OPAG team, the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, and partner stakeholders who continuously champion agricultural development and inclusive growth in the province.
The National Extension Conference serves as a premier platform that brings together extension professionals, researchers, and practitioners from across the country to share best practices, innovations, and research-based solutions aimed at strengthening community development and resilience.
