Agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in Benguet are gaining more reliable markets and improved incomes through strengthened partnerships with government institutions, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) said.
Under the DAR’s monthly “Kumustahan” sessions of the Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (PAHP) Project, agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs) are directly linked to institutional buyers, including the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the Philippine National Police, and local government units. The initiative aims to secure steady demand for farm produce while helping stabilize farmers’ earnings.
With assured buyers, ARBs are able to sell produce regularly, minimize postharvest losses, and maintain a consistent food supply for communities, according to DAR.
The latest session, held April 7 in Tuba, Benguet, featured best practices from local cooperatives, including the Taloy Farmers Multipurpose Cooperative (TAFARMCO). The group highlighted its farm management systems and year-round vegetable production, supported by interventions from the agency.
In 2023, DAR provided TAFARMCO with two vegetable greenhouses equipped with drip irrigation systems under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project, enabling the cooperative to improve both yield and quality of its produce.
Discussions during the activity focused on expanding market access, strengthening procurement of locally grown products, and aligning stakeholder efforts to address food supply concerns.
The regular “Kumustahan” sessions also serve as a platform for farmers and institutional partners to resolve operational issues and improve coordination in delivering food from farms to end-users.
OIC Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Lailani Cortez said sustained collaboration between farmers and government agencies is key to building a resilient food system, noting that such partnerships help stabilize supply and reduce rural poverty.
The initiative supports the directive of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III to intensify stakeholder collaboration, empower farmer groups, and strengthen market linkages toward food security and sustainable agricultural growth.**Jessica Joy Fernando
