ARB organizations earn P2.3-B through program against hunger and poverty

The country’s Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries’ Organizations (ARBOs) have earned a total of P2.377 billion through the government’s Program Against Hunger and Poverty (PAHP) program, a government initiative addressing food security, hunger, and poverty problems through the cooperation and convergence of essential services of various government agencies.

Under the PAHP Program, various government agencies and institutions tap the services of ARBOs to supply them with various agricultural products and food commodities, which enables farmers to have a steady and large market at a fair price and, thus more earnings.

The figure was disclosed during the PAHP’s Planning Workshop Sustainability conducted by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) from June 25 to 28, 2024.

It was learned that in its initial implementation in 2019, the ARBOs earned P3.68 million; in 2020, P148.86 million; in 2021, P485.39 million; in P 2022, P800.09 million; in 2023, P680.68 million, and this year, as of April, these farmers groups have already earned P259.13 million.

The DAR has linked a total of 470 ARBOs to institutional markets such as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the Department of Health, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, the Department of Education, National Nutrition Council, Local Government Units, DAR Employees Association, Medical Mission Groups, San Miguel Food Incorporated, and Pro Green Agricorp, among others.

DAR’s Support Services Office Undersecretary Rowena Niña Taduran said that through collaborative efforts, the DAR, with its partners can make a meaningful impact on the lives of the farmers.

“This workshop marks a pivotal moment where we brainstorm and strategize toward sustainable solutions such as sustainable agriculture practices, food security initiatives, and economic empowerment opportunities,” she said.

On the last day of the activity, there will be an awarding ceremony to recognize the commitment, hard work, and valuable contributions of regional and provincial offices and institutional partners in the success of the program, as well as the outstanding ARBO performers