DAR links farm producers to more wholesale buyers in Sorsogon amid energy shock

By Benilda Recebido

SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon --- The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is connecting farmers with more consumers and institutions to help increase their income and reduce food waste, especially as global oil prices rise sharply.

By linking farmers directly with hospitals, correctional facilities, and other markets, the initiative aims to ensure that farmers receive fair and steady prices for their goods while also providing these institutions with a reliable supply of high-quality food.

This effort not only supports farmers and strengthens the entire food system—from producers to consumers—but also aims to keep local food supplies stable and prices fair.

To achieve these goals, an agreement was signed at the DAR office in Sorsogon, creating a direct supply chain for agricultural products and handmade crafts from at least 15 organizations that benefit from agrarian reform.

By cutting out market fluctuations and middlemen, this program helps farmers earn a stable income and reduces transportation costs, which have been heavily affected by the ongoing global oil crisis.

Under this new arrangement, farmers will directly deliver fresh produce and crafts to local facilities including the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the Philippine National Police, the Sorsogon Medical Mission Group Hospital, and markets supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Leaders from these institutions expressed their commitment not just as buyers but as partners, emphasizing their shared goal of supporting locally grown food and helping farmers become more competitive in the market.

Maria Trinise General, the provincial agrarian reform program officer, said that the agreement marks an important step toward strengthening partnerships, expanding market access, promoting food security, and creating lasting job opportunities for farmers.

Cassiopeia Delgado from DTI assured farmers that the agency is dedicated to helping them improve their products to meet both national and international quality standards.

Farmers Gerwyn Pura and Daisy Belludo expressed their gratitude to DAR and their new partners for providing access to larger markets.

They noted that having guaranteed market access is crucial for weathering economic challenges.

In turn, the cooperatives promised to deliver high-quality, naturally grown produce at fair prices, building strong and sustainable relationships with their buyers. (PIA Bicol/Sorsogon)

By linking farmers directly with hospitals, correctional facilities, and other markets, the initiative aims to ensure that farmers receive fair and steady prices for their goods while also providing these institutions with a reliable supply of high-quality food. (Photo from DARPO Sorsogon)