With unwavering commitment to inclusive development and community empowerment, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Region VII hosts the 2nd Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) Regional Convergence Team (RCT) Partners Quarterly Meeting at the Central Visayas Training Center (CVTC) Function Hall in Tagbilaran City on June 17-18, 2025.
In his warm and purposeful welcome message, Engr. Antonio B. Gujeling, Acting Regional Manager of NIA Region VII, expressed deep gratitude for the renewed collaboration among EPAHP stakeholders and partners.
“It is with great honor and joy that I welcome back all of you to this meaningful convergence. It is through collaboration, accountability, and shared commitment that the EPAHP vision will continue to gain ground."
The event gathered key representatives from multiple national government agencies, regional line agencies, LGUs, civil society organizations (CSOs), and community-based organizations (CBOs) who have remained steadfast in advancing the EPAHP mission.
Among the attending agencies were the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as the lead agency, along with the Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Health (DOH), TESDA, DepEd, BJMP, Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM),DILG, National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).
The convergence team is set to revisit prior agreements and deliverables, assess progress, and reinforce strategies to ensure aligned and impactful interventions at the grassroots level.
Engr. Gujeling also reaffirmed NIA Region VII’s full support to the program, especially in enhancing the capacities of Irrigators Associations (IAs) to engage in food production, enterprise development, and institutional marketing. “Our farmers remain at the heart of this endeavor,” he said.
The quarterly meeting serves not only as a venue for reporting and planning, but also as a platform for inspiration — reminding each agency of their vital role in bridging resources, empowering communities, and transforming lives.