“Macayaya nga Abulug!”

This cheerful chant signified a momentous occasion as the Department of Trade and Industry R2 Cagayan, together with the Office of Congresswoman Hon. Baby Aline Vargas Alfonso and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Abulug led by Hon. Mayor Jesus Emmanuel P. Vargas, officially launched the Tayak Agri-Tourism Floating Cottage Facility of the Tayak Agri-Fishery Producers Association (TAFPA) on 23 April 2024, at Sitio Tayak Barangay Siguiran, Abulug, Cagayan.

This project, part of the Shared Service Facility (SSF) Project of DTI, went beyond providing a river cruise experience showcasing Abulug’s scenic estuary. It also introduced the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the Abulugeños. For TAFPA members, this marked the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream, offering a new source of income to improve the lives of farmers and fisherfolk in the barangay and the wider Abulug community.

In his welcoming words, Barangay Captain Estroly R. Flores emphasized the significance of unity and cooperation in fostering a stronger community, evoking a feeling of inclusivity and common goals among the attendees, most especially to the TAFPA members.

Mayor Vargas in his message delivered by Hon. Vice Mayor Jesus Florencio A. Vargas, highlighted the firm support of the municipal government for initiatives aimed at uplifting the community, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to fostering sustainable development.

Meanwhile, Ms. Cynthia C. Talattad, Chief of the DTI Cagayan Business Development Division, provided an overview of the Tayak Agri-Tourism Floating Cottage Facility. Her presentation included the features and objectives of the project, giving attendees a clear understanding of its significance for the local economy and tourism sector.

Congresswoman Baby Aline Vargas Alfonso expressed profound gratitude to DTI for their support in realizing the project. Her words underscored the importance of collaboration between government agencies and local communities in driving sustainable development initiatives.

In response, DTI R2 Regional Director Leah Pulido-Ocampo, represented by DTI R2 Cagayan PD Henry O. Conel, Jr., conveyed sincere appreciation to the partners involved in bringing the project to fruition. Her remarks highlighted the collaborative efforts that made the project possible and emphasized the potential for job creation and economic growth in the region.

Association members, led by Ms. Melegrina P. Turingan, CARP Regional Coordinator, led the recitation of the Pledge of Commitment to the project. To highlight this was the signing of the Usufruct Agreement, the blessing of the project, and the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The event showcased TAFPA’s capabilities and community collaboration with DTI and other agencies. Attendees from DTI included Ms. Pauline Taguibao, Ms. Marivic Calvo, Ms. Caroline Engeljakob, Ms. Alpha Paggabao, Ms. Aleli Gargar, and Mr. Reyneil Viloria from the Cagayan Provincial Office, along with Ms. Desiree Angolluan, Ms. Karen Amores, and Ms. Marites Camarauan from the Regional Office, highlighting the significance of this momentous occasion.

For more info visit: https://www.facebook.com/DTIR2.Cagayan2023/posts/pfbid02T6tsmxvawUjAxUzJGhC8bjtbRb2GxwVdfvieErXDyiGdyxHMZvKsDMLjCA21xXpQl. ♦

Date of release: 03 May 2024