Kidapawan City, May 30, 2025 — Rain or shine, hundreds of residents gathered along Quezon Boulevard in Barangay Poblacion to join the vibrant “Sugba sa Dalan,” a community grilling event led by the City Government as part of the 2025 Farmers and Fisherfolks Month celebration.
The event, which began at 1:30 p.m., treated participants to freshly grilled tilapia or hito, unlimited rice, purple corn, eggplant, and dipping sauce—all for free with a ticket. These tickets were distributed earlier in the afternoon at designated areas such as DBP Osmeña Drive, the corner of Mercury Drug and Lapu-Lapu Street, and EastWest Bank.
Mayor Atty. Paolo Evangelista spearheaded the activity, emphasizing that the event was a gesture of gratitude to the local tilapia and hito producers. “This is not only a thanksgiving celebration but also a way to showcase the exceptional quality and delicious taste of our homegrown fish,” he shared.
Grills were set up along the street, and the aroma of freshly cooked fish filled the air as families and individuals lined up to savor the free meals. The crowd’s enthusiastic participation highlighted the deep appreciation and connection the community shares with its local food producers.
The “Sugba sa Dalan” served as the highlight of the city’s Farmers and Fisherfolks Month, reinforcing the importance of agriculture and fisheries to the local economy and food security.
Recognizing Excellence in Farming and Fisheries
Two days prior, on May 28, the City Government also honored outstanding individuals and groups in the agricultural sector during an awarding ceremony held at Park Lay Suites, Barangay Poblacion.
City Mayor Evangelista and City Agriculturist Marissa Aton personally handed out plaques and cash prizes to this year’s awardees:
- Outstanding Farmer, Small Scale – James Dimaano (Brgy. Sudapin)
- Outstanding Farmer, Large Scale – Geneva Ferrolino (Brgy. Indangan)
- Outstanding Rural Woman – Nora Diadeo (Brgy. New Bohol)
- Outstanding Young Farmer – Kristine Joy Barro (Brgy. Gayola)
- Outstanding Fisherfolk – Dodamin Bojos (Brgy. Linangkob)
- Outstanding Livestock Farmer – Venfrando Homez (Brgy. Binoligan)
- Outstanding Poultry Raiser – Darryl Flores (Brgy. Ilomavis)
- Agricultural Product Display Champion – Kidapawan Rice Growers Association
- Landscape Design Contest Winner – Entry Number 2
These awards reflect the diverse contributions of individuals who tirelessly work to feed and sustain communities, often without recognition.
A Celebration of Food, Culture, and Gratitude
The twin events not only celebrated the flavors of local produce but also underlined the vital role that farmers and fisherfolks play in sustaining society. As the backbone of food production, their labor supports livelihoods, nurtures local economies, and preserves rural culture.
Mayor Evangelista remarked, “Every grain of rice and every fish on our plates is a product of hard work. Recognizing our farmers and fisherfolks isn’t just ceremonial—it’s necessary.”
With community-centered activities like “Sugba sa Dalan” and a strong commitment to recognizing agricultural excellence, Kidapawan City sets a powerful example of how local governments can honor and empower the people who nourish the nation.