Farmers’ Cooperatives in Camarines Sur Forge New Market Partnership with Philippine Army

PILI, Camarines Sur - In an unprecedented collaboration, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has successfully facilitated an agreement between nine agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) in Camarines Sur and the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, based in Pili to guarantee a consistent market for farmers' agricultural produce and processed food products.

The partnership was solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding and Marketing Agreement, which aims to ensure a steady supply of fresh farm produce for Army personnel while providing a reliable market for local farmers.

Major General Adonis R. Bajao, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division, expressed optimism about the partnership.

"We hope to support our farmers with sustainable programs like this while helping the government eliminate agrarian conflict in our communities," he said during the signing ceremony.

The ARBOs involved in this initiative include nine agrarian reform cooperatives and associations from Bombon, Tigaon, Pili, Ocampo, and Naga City.

Emiliana Volante, President of the Siembre Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization in Bombon, highlighted the significance of this agreement. "Before, we struggled to find buyers. Now we have another guaranteed customer, so no produce will go to waste," she remarked.

DAR Regional Director Reuben Theodore C. Sindac praised the Army for its role in promoting rural community welfare. "This harmonious collaboration fulfills our shared mission as public servants," he stated.

Sindac said the 9th Infantry Division is the first Army unit in Bicol to enter into such an agreement with local farmers' groups, marking a significant milestone.

"This partnership will provide our agrarian reform beneficiaries with a guaranteed market for their products and open opportunities for them to reach more buyers, including the AFP," explained Renato C. Bequillo, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer.

Bequillo also emphasized that this innovative partnership reflects DAR’s commitment to not only land distribution but also providing marketing support to enhance productivity and profitability for farmers.

The event was attended by Provincial