Farmers, vendors launch organic vegetable market and trading center
The city government launched the Organic Grower’s Vegetable Market and Agricultural Commodity Trading Center at the Satellite Market, Chinatown, Brgy. GPS, Koronadal City.
This initiative was realized through the City Economic Enterprise and Development Office and City Agriculture Office, with the participation of members of Koronadal Organic Vegetable Growers Association (KORVEGA).
The market and trading post will serve as venues for trade and opportunities for farmers and vegetable vendors to sell produce at the right price, as well as to establish strong relationship between farmers and wholesalers distributing around the city.
Future plans for the project include modern harvesting equipment and cold storage facilities to accommodate frozen food products.
Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture-XII and Department of Trade and Industry-South Cotabato manifested their full support to the program.
DTI-SC Trade Industry Specialist Rhea Hallarsis appreciated the initiatives and said their office is willing to support the farmers in the aspect of business and development such as packaging and marketing their products.
“The Department of Trade and Industry is very happy nga yara kamo kag yara man ang project because gusto namon makapartner ang katawhan nga involved sang sini nga programa.”
DA-XII Regional Executive Director himself Atty. Arlan M. Mangelen graced the event, congratulated the city’s project launch and pledged his regional department in full support when it comes to the agricultural sector.
“Sa lahat ng aming mga programa, mula rice, corn… organic, high-value, at mga livestock, ay fully support po ang Department of Agriculture sa local government unit ng Koronadal.”
DA-XII donated additional equipment for the trading center such as crates and industrial racks.
These initiatives are one of the farm-to-market solutions the government is currently working on to restart the economy, especially for the farmers, who were greatly affected by the pandemic.