The Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) hosted the first-ever 4-H (Head, Heart, Hands, Health) Municipal Youth Summit, emphasizing the role of youth in agriculture in Manolo Fortich. The event brought together 4-H presidents and members from the barangays of Maluko, Lingion, Lunocan, Kalugmanan, and Alae at the Municipal Gymnasium, Barangay Tankulan, Manolo Fortich, on November 17, 2024.

The 4-H Club was originally established in the United States of America during the 1900s and was introduced in the Philippines by María Orosa e Ylagan in 1930. Initially aimed at gathering out-of-school youth, it now also welcomes in-school youth who are passionate about agriculture. The club focuses on activities such as food gardening, preservation, and livelihood programs that align with its four development goals: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health.

MAO Senior Agriculturist Maria Josefa D. Alidon highlighted how 4-H membership equips young people with skills for economic and community leadership. She shared, “Mao ni siya ang paghelp sa mga people to gain the skills needed to be proactive forces sa mga communities and develop ideas for an innovative economy. It opens the door to young people in learning leadership skills and revolutionizes how they have practical learning experiences outside the classrooms.”

Currently, there are approximately 100 members of the 4-H Club in Manolo Fortich. Committee Chairperson on Agriculture, Coun. Raquel A. Bayacag, inspired the attendees with a call to action, saying, “As a vibrant community of young leaders and innovators for Agriculture, we need to be active kay the only permanent thing diri sa kalibutan is change. We are considered changemakers, united for our shared passion for bringing growth and service in our municipality.”

The youth summit commenced with a traditional flag ceremony, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, the 4-H Creed, and the 4-H Pledge. Various contests such as Agri-Himig Handog, Agri-Tale, Trashformation, Poster Making, and Chant Performances were held, with representatives from the five participating barangays showcasing their talents and creativity. Below are the results of the contests:

Agri-Himig Handog

1st Place - Barangay Maluko

2nd Place - Barangay Lingion

3rd Place - Barangay Alae

Agri-Tale

1st Place - Barangay Lingion

2nd Place - Barangay Alae

3rd Place - Barangay Maluko