By Kenneth Marcos 
Smiles and excitement filled the hall as newly appointed and promoted employees of the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) took their oath of office, marking another milestone in their professional journey and in the agency’s continuing commitment to serve the agriculture sector.
The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Director Gina Parde-Nilo, Ph.D., joined by Assistant Director Denise A. Solano, HR Chief Nancy C. De Sagun, Soil Conservation and Management Division (SCMD) Chief Engr. Eduardo V. Alberto, Soil and Water Resources Research Division (SWRRD) Chief Karen S. Bautista, Ph.D., and Soil Survey Division (SSD) Supervising Agriculturist Mr. Marcelo H. Dayo.
Among those who officially took their oath were:
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Mr. Cedrick Jasper S. Francisco, Science Research Specialist II, SWRRD
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Mr. Eugene A. Boongaling, Agriculturist II, SSD
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Mr. Jethro M. Miñano, Engineer I, SCMD
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Ms. Ladylene D. Gravidez, Science Research Specialist I, SWRRD
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Ms. Kimberlyn F. Marcos, Administrative Assistant III (Senior Bookkeeper), Accounting Section
Director Parde-Nilo commended the new appointees for their dedication and urged them to remain committed to BSWM’s mission of promoting sustainable soil and water management across the country. “Your appointment is not just a recognition of your individual efforts, but also a call to continue delivering excellent public service to Filipino farmers,” she said.
The event served as both a celebration and a reminder of the agency’s vital role in ensuring the efficient use of land and water resources, especially in light of the challenges brought by climate change and environmental degradation.
BSWM leadership emphasized that its workforce remains at the heart of its operations — from conducting research on soil fertility to implementing programs that help farmers increase productivity while protecting the environment. With new and promoted staff members, the bureau aims to strengthen its technical capacity and improve the delivery of its agricultural services nationwide.
The ceremony concluded with messages of encouragement from division heads, highlighting the importance of integrity, teamwork, and innovation in public service. Employees were reminded that their roles contribute directly to achieving the “Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas” vision under the Department of Agriculture’s modernization and sustainability goals.
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