By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside a modest conference room in Malate, Manila, a sense of pride and renewed purpose filled the air as nine employees of the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) officially took their oath of office after being promoted or newly appointed. The ceremony, held on October 10, 2025, was led by DA-BPI Director Dr. Gerald Glenn Panganiban and attended both in person and via Zoom.
This simple yet meaningful event marked another step forward in the agency’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership and improve services that directly impact the country’s agriculture and plant industry sector.
Strengthening the Plant Industry Workforce
The newly promoted and appointed employees represent various divisions under the DA-BPI, with most coming from the National Plant Quarantine Services Division (NPQSD), which plays a crucial role in safeguarding Philippine agriculture from plant pests and diseases. Two laboratory aides from the Baguio National Crop Research, Development, and Production Support Center were also among those recognized.
Here is the list of newly promoted and appointed personnel:
-
Jelly P. Narnola (Laboratory Aide II) – Baguio National Crop Research, Development and Production Support Center
-
Rafael T. Cachin (Laboratory Aide II) – Baguio National Crop Research, Development and Production Support Center
-
Elvin A. Carandang (Agriculturist II) – National Plant Quarantine Services Division
-
Alfred Chris A. Arreglo (Agriculturist II) – National Plant Quarantine Services Division
-
Jezer Jay B. Layam (Agriculturist II) – National Plant Quarantine Services Division
-
Janet E. Semanero (Agriculturist I) – National Plant Quarantine Services Division
-
Ella Mae B. Lacanilao (Agricultural Technologist) – National Plant Quarantine Services Division
-
Paul Kenith M. Gargar (Agricultural Technologist) – National Plant Quarantine Services Division
-
Rhea U. Solis (Agricultural Technician II) – National Plant Quarantine Services Division
A Move Toward Better Public Service
Director Panganiban emphasized that these promotions are part of the DA-BPI’s commitment to empowering its people. By recognizing talent and dedication within the agency, the Bureau aims to enhance the delivery of honest, efficient, and science-based agricultural services.
“These appointments are not just a recognition of individual effort, but a signal that we are investing in people who will help carry our mission forward,” said Panganiban during the oath-taking.
The DA-BPI plays a vital role in supporting local agriculture by ensuring plant health, overseeing quarantine regulations, and promoting the development of crop research. The strengthened workforce is expected to improve operations especially in plant health inspection, laboratory analysis, and field support.
Supporting a Modern and Productive Agriculture Sector
As the country works toward building a “Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas,” the Department of Agriculture continues to prioritize human resource development. Investing in public servants who are on the ground—checking plant shipments, inspecting farms, conducting research, or educating local farmers—is key to achieving food security and agricultural growth.
The Bureau hopes that the new set of leaders will inspire excellence and accountability, not only within their respective units but across the agricultural sector.
The event closed with a reminder that every promotion is not only a reward but a responsibility to serve the Filipino people with integrity and excellence.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News