MANILA – Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday paid tribute to the legacy left by Agriculture Undersecretary for Livestock Deogracias Victor “DV” Savellano not only in the agriculture sector but also in other avenues his public service has reached.
In a statement, Tiu Laurel described Savellano as a “friend” and “tireless advocate” of the welfare of Filipino farmers.
“Like the bamboo plant he so passionately promoted, DV embodied quiet strength, resilience, and humility. He worked selflessly for the betterment of others, driven by his love for the Filipino people,” he said.
“His dedication to agriculture and rural development was unwavering, always aimed at improving the lives of those who depend on the land. From his early work in local governance to his leadership in the department, DV never lost sight of the struggles of the common farmer.”
Tiu Laurel, likewise, extended his condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the DA official.
“It is with profound sorrow that we bid farewell to our dear friend, colleague, and Undersecretary for Livestock, ‘DV’ Savellano. His sudden passing is a tremendous loss not only to the Department of Agriculture but to the countless lives he touched and inspired,” he said.
Savellano passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 65. He was a former congressman and governor of Ilocos Sur.
Meanwhile, Tiu Laurel designated DA Assistant Secretary Constante Palabrica as Undersecretary-designate for Livestock “to ensure continuous operations and service to Filipinos.”
Under DA Special Order 11 signed January 7, Palabrica shall “perform the functions, duties, and responsibilities inherent to the designation” alongside his current functions as Assistant Secretary for Swine and Poultry and other designations.
In a separate interview, DA spokesperson, Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa, said Palabrica’s appointment is necessary but is subject to the approval of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
“Mayroon iyang mga transactions na on an everyday basis na kapag may delay, mayroong delay ng serbisyo sa ating mga kababayan (There are transactions on an everyday basis, that once there’s a delay, service to our fellow Filipinos will also be delayed),” he said.
Before his designation, Palabrica performed overseeing functions in the swine and poultry sectors amid challenges posed by African swine fever and avian influenza. (PNA)