Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. opened December with a clear reminder to Department of Agriculture (DA) personnel: stay grounded, stay principled, and keep public service at the center of the agency’s work, even as the holiday season brings distractions and pressures.
During the DA’s Monday flag ceremony, Tiu Laurel set an upbeat tone—joking about Christmas shopping sprees, Divisoria trips, and marathon live-selling sessions that drain the wallets—before shifting to the message he said should guide government workers this month and beyond. “Sariwain ang tunay na diwa ng Pasko—tapat, taos-pusong serbisyo para sa bayan,” he said.
The secretary marked his second year leading the department by acknowledging both achievements and hurdles in the drive to support farmers, fisherfolk, and families relying on affordable, safe food. He also alluded to recent controversies involving accusations made against him, reiterating that such claims are untrue and part of the challenges that test the resolve of public servants.
Tiu Laurel urged employees to stay steady amid such pressures, saying the DA has consistently chosen the path of integrity and should continue doing so. “Hindi tayo pumayag,” he said, stressing that the agency’s work must remain anchored on professionalism and accountability.
The agriculture secretary then shifted to gratitude—thanking DA staff for their dedication, which he said has kept him motivated despite the demands of the role. Tiu Laurel affirmed he is committed to finishing the administration’s agenda through 2028, noting that many programs and reforms still lie ahead.
Tiu Laurel presided as well in the opening of the new DA clinic to watch over the health of personnel. Clinic provides medical and dental services as well as free some of medicines.
As offices prepare for Christmas parties and gift exchanges, he encouraged employees to remember the most meaningful gift they can offer the public: consistent, sincere service.
Tiu Laurel ended with an early holiday greeting and a call for renewed cooperation and enthusiasm. “Trabaho lang tayo nang mas masigla, mas magaan , at mas nagkakaisa. Let the Christmas spirit live in us all month long,” he said.
