Manila, Dec. 12 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Friday rolled out the nationwide simultaneous holiday boodle fights and gift-giving to about 800 fishers and farmers in the country.

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. led the event in Navotas City as part of the Paskong Baybayin program, which aimed to honor the efforts of those in the agricultural sector.

In a speech, the agriculture chief reassured local fishers and farmers that the Marcos administration will continue to listen and respond to the needs of the sector as the country advances its food security targets.

"Nais ng Pangulo na ang ating food producers kumita nang maayos at mamuhay nang marangal sa tulong ng ating pamahalaan (President [Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.] want...