NTA chief’s resignation sought

VIGAN CITY, Philippines - – Ilocos Sur Gov. Ryan Luis Singson has joined the call of tobacco farmers for the resignation of National Tobacco Administration (NTA) administrator Edgardo Zaragoza.

Last week, tobacco farmers called on President Aquino to replace Zaragoza and other NTA officials, saying they have done nothing to improve the lot of tobacco farmers.

 At the tobacco summit held at the provincial capitol, the farmers also complained of low prices in the trading of their harvests, and accused NTA officials, including deputy administrator Everin Molina, of being insensitive to their plight.

 Singson said Zaragoza, former mayor of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, has not offered assistance to tobacco growers since he assumed his post.

 Meanwhile, Zaragoza said the clamor for his resignation is politically motivated. He said he has been doing his best to help the farmers, including making sure that they get reasonable prices for their harvests.