Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. urged employees of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to uphold consistency and sincere public service amid the holiday season.

“Trabaho lang tayo na mas masigla, mas magaan at mas nagkaka-isa (Let us just work vigorously, lighter and more united). Let the Christmas spirit live in us all month long,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

He reminded the DA family to “stay grounded and principled” despite all the “distractions and pressures” during the holidays.

“Sariwain ang tunay na diwa ng Pasko — tapat, taos-pusong serbisyo para sa bayan (Let’s rekindle the true essence of Christmas — faithful and heartfelt service for the nation),” Tiu Laurel said.

He thanked DA staff for their hard work as he marked his second year of leadership, citing continuous efforts to uphold the welfare of farmers, fishers and consumers.

Meanwhile, Tiu Laurel reiterated his stance against the recent allegations made by former Ako Bicol Party-list representative Zaldy Co, who supposedly sought favors from him on importation.

“Hindi tayo pumayag (We did not allow it),” he said, stressing that he has maintained “integrity and professionalism” as head of the DA. (PNA)