AGRI FAIR. Members of agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs) in Camarines Sur arrange their products in an agricultural fair as part of the 'Agraryo Merkado' project of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in this undated photo. The ARBOs earned PHP449,710 from April 15 to June 28 this year. (Photo courtesy of Geri Buensalida/DAR Camarines Sur)
LEGAZPI CITY – Agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs) in Camarines Sur have earned PHP449,710 selling their farm harvests at a trade-fair market inside the Camarines Sur Provincial Police Office (PPO) headquarters organized by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
In an interview on Tuesday, Anne Barcelon, DAR-Camarines Sur ll agrarian reform program officer, said the ARBOs participated in the "Agraryo Merkado sa Kampo" project of DAR-Bicol and the Police Regional Office 5 (Bicol).
"This initiative with DAR Camarines Sur ll and the Camarines Sur PPO headquarters has generated PHP449,710 in revenue over just five sales periods from April 15 to June 28. It will be a continued partnership that aims to link the ARBOs to institutional buyers and other direct markets," Barcelon said.
She said the Agraryo Merkado initiative extends beyond commerce, providing substantial support to farmer households and contributing to necessary financial stability.
Renato Bequillo, DAR Camarines Sur II Provincial Agrarian Reform Program officer, said in a statement the initiative not only promotes sustainable farming practices by ensuring the availability of fresh, safe, and nutritious products but also serves as a sustainable economic booster for the farmers involved.
“The bi-monthly trade fair-style market in front of the PNP (Philippine National Police) headquarters in Naga City provides a crucial platform for local farmers. They can sell a variety of homegrown products, ranging from fresh vegetables and fruits to processed foods and root crops, directly to consumers at fair prices,” Bequillo added.
He cited the income boost and the new sales channel for farmers, emphasizing the importance of community support.
“When you purchase from Agraryo Merkado sa Kampo, you’re not just buying quality goods. You’re supporting agrarian reform, reducing social inequalities, and significantly boosting the livelihoods of our local farmers and their families," he added. (PNA)
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