Innovative ‘Agraryo Merkado sa Kampo’ Project Elevates Farmers’ Earnings in Camarines Sur

NAGA CITY – Agrarian reform beneficiaries in Camarines Sur are enjoying significant financial gains, thanks to the "Agraryo Merkado sa Kampo" project.

This initiative, a collaboration between the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Provincial Office and the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters, has generated ₱449,710.00 in revenue over just five sales periods from April 15 to June 28.

Renato O. Bequillo, DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer, remarked, “The bi-monthly trade fair-style market in front of the PNP Headquarters in Naga City provides a crucial platform for local farmers. They can sell a variety of homegrown products — ranging from fresh vegetables and fruits to processed foods and root crops — directly to consumers at fair prices.”

“The initiative not only promotes sustainable farming practices by ensuring the availability of fresh, safe, and nutritious products but also serves as a sustainable economic booster for the farmers involved,” Bequillo added.

The project has been particularly transformative for the Vegetable Growers Association of ARB Libod-Tinawagan (VEGAT) in Tinawagan, Tigaon, Camarines Sur. Vicky Purisima, chairman of VEGAT, highlighted the project's impact, stating, "Before, our efforts to sell often resulted in wasted produce and fruitless journeys. Now, with DAR's support, we simply display our products, and they swiftly attract buyers."

In April and May, farmers achieved impressive sales totaling ₱186,685 and ₱178,830, respectively. The upward trend continued with an additional ₱84,195 in sales recorded on June 28.

To further enhance trade opportunities, the project plans to expand its offerings to include handmade native products.

The positive impact of the Agraryo Merkado initiative extends beyond commerce, providing substantial support to farmer households and contributing to necessary financial stability, especially for those with school-aged children.

Bequillo expressed his satisfaction with the income boost and the new sales channel for farmers, emphasizing the importance of community support: “When you purchase from Agraryo Merkado sa Kampo, you’re not just buying quality goods. You’re supporting agrarian