By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside the National Food Authority’s main office in Quezon City, a quiet sense of pride filled the room as new and promoted employees stood to take their oath. For many of them, the moment marked years of hard work and a renewed commitment to public service, at a time when food security remains a top concern for Filipino families.
The National Food Authority formally swore in its newly hired and promoted employees during a ceremony held at its central office. The event was led by NFA Administrator Larry R. Lacson and witnessed by Acting Deputy Administrator Veralew De Vera and Acting Assistant Administrator Joey C. Pimentel. The oath-taking forms part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its workforce and improve the delivery of services to the public.
Among those who took their oath were Atty. Marie Angelique M. Aquino as Internal Auditor IV, Kharen Joy C. Bañares as Internal Auditor I, Atty. Samuel A. Merjudio as Attorney III, Hannah Teresita R. Remorozo as Internal Auditor III, Camille Joyce S. Sanico as Administrative Assistant III, and Roxann T. Tomias as Internal Auditor II. During the ceremony, the employees also received their attested appointments from the Civil Service Commission.
NFA officials said the activity is part of the agency’s push to fast-track the filling of vacant positions this year. By completing staffing gaps, the NFA aims to improve internal controls, speed up processes, and ensure that its mandate is carried out more efficiently across the country.
The National Food Authority plays a critical role in maintaining the stability of the country’s rice supply, especially for vulnerable sectors. It is responsible for buffer stocking, ensuring the availability of affordable rice, and supporting government programs for food security and disaster response. Having enough trained and competent personnel is seen as essential to meeting these responsibilities.
Administrator Lacson emphasized the importance of integrity and accountability in public service. With new and promoted staff joining key offices such as auditing, legal services, and administration, the NFA expects stronger oversight and smoother coordination within the agency. These improvements are expected to help the NFA respond more quickly to operational demands, particularly during periods of high rice demand or emergencies.
Employees who were promoted expressed gratitude for the trust given to them and pledged to uphold ethical standards in their work. For newly appointed staff, the oath-taking served as a reminder that working for the NFA means serving millions of Filipinos who rely on affordable and quality rice.
The ceremony also highlighted the agency’s campaign message, “Sa Serbisyong Patas at Tapat, Bigas ay Laging De Kalidad,” underscoring the link between good governance and the quality of services delivered to the public. Officials noted that strengthening human resources is just as important as improving facilities and systems.
As the NFA continues to adjust to challenges in the food sector, from supply disruptions to rising costs, agency leaders said investing in people remains a priority. With a reinforced team, the NFA hopes to better fulfill its mandate and maintain public trust.
The oath-taking of new and promoted employees signals the agency’s commitment to responsive and reliable service, reminding both workers and the public that effective institutions begin with dedicated public servants.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News