The Department of Agriculture has officially appointed actor-singer James Reid Ambassador of Food Security. The 27-year-old TV and movie heartthrob personally received his designation when he graced DA’s twin event at the central office in Quezon City on May 26. Wearing a mask, Reid accompanied Secretary William Dar for the opening of the Farmers and Fisherfolk’s Month celebration and launch of the “Plant, Plant, Plant” program. He was also presented a certificate to make his post official.

PHOTO FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
As food security ambassador, Reid is tasked to inform the public on the main advocacies of the department. Specifically, these include the campaign on ensuring sustained food security, and food accessibility and affordability. He also further commits to encourage the youth and other advocates on the important roles of farmers and fishers, their hard work, and their valuable contributions to country.

In a video shared by the DA through the Presidential Communications group, Reid expressed gratitude to the agency for giving him the opportunity to serve.
“Magandang araw po sa inyong lahat, nandito po ako ngayon sa Department of Agriculture. It is my honor to use my voice to support the farmers and fisherfolk of the Philippines. I am honored to be designated the role of Ambassador of Food Security. For me, the farmers and fisherfolk are the backbone and heartbeat of our economy. So I would like to encourage younger generation to be more involved and to support the farmers and fisherfolk. Tara na! Plant, plant, plant. Let’s grow!”
Meanwhile, Reid with the help of International Sanitation and Protection Suppliers, marked the special day by donating medical-grade sanitization tents and PPE for DA’s employees.
Finally on Instagram, the 27-year-old heartthrob posted his photo carrying a potted plant and the caption, “Let’s grooow! Thank you to the Department of Agriculture and Secretary Dar for trusting me with the role of Ambassador for Food Security. Thanks for the gift. Can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been working on during quarantine!”

his photo from DA on Instagram with part of his caption reading: ‘Can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been working on during quarantine!’
According to Secretary Dar, agriculture plays a very important part in pursuing the government’s Covid-19 recovery efforts.
“For us to rise stronger from this Covid-19 crisis, the government must encourage the development of an agriculture-driven economy. We believe that economic growth in agriculture is more effective at reducing poverty and food insecurity than growth in other sectors. Investments in agriculture can help revive food production and create jobs, following a crisis, and enable rural communities to recover,” he stated.