Estrella uplifts ARB products for global competitiveness

Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella has urged everyone to help promote the products of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) to be globally competitive during the opening of the four-day Agraryo Trade Fair at the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Central Office in celebration of the International Rural Women’s Day and Rural Women’s Month.

“Let us help promote the products of our ARBs not only for local consumption but also globally. The DAR has allocated funds for training so that they can improve their products for it to be competitive and marketable not only locally but also around the world,” Estrella said.

Estrella emphasized the importance of establishing local and global networks in a bid to help the ARBs promote and sell their products through the DAR’s value chain system where the agency helps the ARBs from land to material sourcing, production, credit assistance, product processing, consumption and marketing assistance.

DAR Undersecretary for Support Services Rowena Niña Taduran said the Trade Fair showcasing the various food and non-food products of the ARBs is a platform to celebrate not only the spirit of agriculture but also the vital contributions of ARB organizations in the collective mission to ensure food security.

“As we embark on this journey together, we recognize that these organizations play a crucial role in transforming our agricultural landscape,” Taduran said.

She said that through innovation, collaboration, and resilience, the DAR empowers farmers and communities, to foster sustainable practices that enhance productivity and promote food sovereignty.

Taduran disclosed that the fair is not just a showcase of the ARBs products, but a testament to the strength of commitment to uplifting the lives of farmers.

“Let us engage, learn, and inspire one another as we work towards a future where everyone has access to safe and nutritious food. Let us help each other towards a sustainable livelihood farming to finally uplift their way of life,” she ended.

The opening ceremony of the Agraryo Trade Fair held on October 15, 2024, was also graced by Atty. Holy T. Ampaguey, head of Legal and Compliance of DITO Telecommunity, Atty Niño Martin