Aklan Grains Processing Center Recognized in 2024 EXCELL Awards for Business Friendliness and Competitiveness

The Province of Aklan has once again made strides in local governance, earning recognition as an awardee of the 2024 Excellence in Local Governance (EXCELL) Awards under the Business Friendliness and Competitiveness category. The accolade highlights the impactful contribution of the Aklan Grains Processing Center (AGPC), a flagship project of the Provincial Government of Aklan.

The AGPC, entitled "Ani it Pag-eaum: The Aklan Grains Processing Center", was established in 2020 to promote sustainable modern agriculture and food security. The facility aims to empower local rice farming communities by providing accessible drying, milling, and warehousing services—helping farmers increase their income and improve market access.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project was completed and inaugurated on March 27, 2022.

A defining feature of the AGPC is its sustainability model, wherein rice is purchased from RSBSA-registered local farmers and distributed to various government and national agencies. This initiative not only uplifts the livelihoods of farmers but also strengthens the rice supply chain, ensuring consistent food availability.

Currently, the AGPC supplies rice to the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) and Red Cross Aklan Chapter for emergency food packs. It is also the regular supplier of freshly milled rice to patients at the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital.

This milestone would not have been possible without the support of various leaders and agencies, including:

• Former Governor Florencio "Joeben" Miraflores for initiating the project

• Governor Jose Enrique "Joen" Miraflores and Vice Governor Atty. Boy Quimpo for their unwavering support

• The 18th Sangguniang Panlalawigan, particularly the Committee on Agriculture members Sovietaguirre Dela Cruz, Ramon Gelito, and Nelson Santamaria

• The 19th Sangguniang Panlalawigan for their continued support

• Former Provincial Agriculturist Salome David and current Provincial Agriculturist Engr. Alexys Apolonio for their tireless efforts

• Engr. Roger Esto and Ma'am Lorna from PPDO for ensuring the project's compliance with requirements

• The Provincial Treasurer and Provincial Accounting for their contributions

• The EXCELL Team—Soviet Dela Cruz, Kris Ann Meñez, Sherlyn Dela Cruz, and Juan Miguel Incensario—for their dedication in completing the necessary documentation

  
  

This recognition is a testament to the hard work and resilience of Aklanon farmers, the backbone of the province's flagship program Pagkaing Sapat, Para sa Lahat, Aklan Aangat. With collective effort and commitment, Aklan continues to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.