ANTIQUE — Governor Paolo Javier conducted his first Bisita Sacada on December 9–10, personally visiting Antiqueño sugar migrants, also known as “sacadas,” working across Negros Occidental and delivering Christmas aid to more than 1,800 sacadas.
Gov. Javier toured several haciendas to meet workers, distribute food packs, and listen to their concerns—an effort aimed at strengthening the provincial government’s support for Antiqueños who travel far from home for seasonal work.
The two-day visit began at Hacienda Cansilayan in Barangay Damsite, Murcia, where he handed out 506 food packs. He then proceeded to La Castellana for a courtesy call with Mayor Añejo Nicor before distributing 375 packs to workers in Hacienda Alipion, Barangay Lalagsan.
In Hacienda Progreso, Barangay Bulad, Isabela, the governor met 943 Antiqueño sacadas and personally delivered Christmas goods. He also met with 5th District Congressman Atty. Dino Yulo to explore further partnerships and support services for sugarcane migrants in the region.
In total, Gov. Javier distributed 1,824 food packs across Murcia, La Castellana, and Isabela.
Gov. Javier said he was both encouraged and concerned by what he witnessed in the haciendas. “In a way, I’m very happy nga gina-halongan sanda kang mga tag-iya gid kang mga tubo…pero nakita ko man ang sitwasyon nanda. Maybe we can improve more ang andang status rugya. Maybe we can provide assistance also,” he said, noting the possibility of providing financial aid next year.
He emphasized the resilience and sacrifices of sacadas who leave Antique to earn a living for their families. “Man-an man natun halin sanda sa atun probinsya tapos nangita pa obra rugya sa may Negros Occidental para may pagkaun andang pamilya. Ang atun mga sacada gina-value man natun, ang andang pagsakripisyo para sa andang pamilya. Importante gid nga buligan man natun, tugruan man naton assistance kag mangita gid kita kang paagi kag budget para kananda,” he added.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing welfare programs and ensuring that Antiqueño sacadas receive increased support and recognition in the coming year./PN
