Be like the bamboo: strong, flexible, resilient, Sen. Villar tells graduates

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Cynthia Villar has encouraged graduates of the University of Antique to “be like the bamboo” which she said has been a symbol of strength, flexibility and resilience.

In her speech during the 71st commencement exercise of the school, Villar said the theme “BAMbUhAy! (Bago, Angat, at Makabuluhang bUhAy was a “fitting representation” of the school’s goal to become a leading institution in bamboo technology.

Villar noted that such aspiration “aligned perfectly” with Antique’s local heritage.

“As we know, bamboo symbolizes strength, flexibility, and growth. Just like bamboos, invest in nurturing your inner selves, cultivating resilience, and never fearing the occasional bend. Ultimately, you will return to your original form, stronger than ever before,” Villar told the graduates

“Embrace the challenges with cour- age, face the unknown with determination, and let your passion be the driving factor to help you achieve things,” she exhorted them. to have a stable agriculture sector to make all the other sectors strong),” he added. Marcos stressed that the success of the Kadiwa program relies on the initiatives that his administration would undertake to reinvigorate the agriculture sector.

As you prepare to embark on new journey, you are equipped with the tools and knowledge to make a positive impact in the world,” Villar said.

Villar, who is chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, also noted that like Antique, bamboo holds a special place in her hometown of Las Piñas City.

“If there’s one thing that is unique about Las Piñas, my hometown, it is the Bamboo Organ, which is considered a Philippine National Treasure. It is the only 19th century Bamboo Organ in the Philippines that has survived and is still functioning,” she said.

She likewise mentioned her continuing efforts to support and promote the bamboo industry. She has been undertaking several projects involving bamboo.

The President toured the booths and stalls of 10 Kadiwa financial grant beneficiaries and five Kadiwa retail selling basic commodities at affordable prices.

“We are prioritizing both the agricultural production and the farmers’ income. That’s very important,” he said.

Launched in November 2022, the Kadiwa ng Pangulo stores were meant to eliminate middlemen in agricultural trading, allowing food and agricultural products to be sold at lower prices. Rio N. Araja and Charles Dantes