Department of Agriculture
March 22, 2011

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (middle) joins the ceremonial “Lechon” chopping which marks the opening of the 20th Hog Convention and Trade Exhibits at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Forum in Pasay City. During the event, Alcala vowed to strengthen the livestock sector by doubling the budget allotted for the industry. According to Alcala, this will help the sector increase its contribution to the country’s agricultural growth. Also in photo are (L-R) ProPork Chairman Albert Lim, Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food chairman Senator Francis Pangilinan, USDA Counselor Philip Shull, AGAP party-list Rep. Nicanor Briones, ProPork President Edwin Chen, and ProPork Corporate Secretary Sharon Tan. The event was organized by the Pork Producers Federation of the Philippines, Inc. (ProPork). # # #(Photo by Rino Resureccion/DA)