PHILSTAR FILE PHOTOTHE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it has started work on a P26-million farm-to-market road in Misamis Oriental to improve market access to growers of coffee, cacao, coconut, and banana.”
The DTI said in a statement on Monday that the 1.06-kilometer road in Barangay Bal-ason, Gingoog City, is funded by its Rural Agro-enterprise Partnership for Inclusive Development (RAPID) Growth Project.
RAPID is in turn backed by a value chain-based development program, known as the International Fund for Agricultural Development.
“This project is a significant step toward improving market access for our farmers, allowing them to transport their produce more efficiently, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance their income opportunities,” Misamis Oriental DTI Provincial Director Jesusa M. Abear said.
“By strengthening the agricultural value chain, we are fostering rural economic growth and ensuring a more sustainable livelihood for smallholder farmers in Gingoog City,” she added.
Aside from the road project, the DTI said it will continue to support farmer-beneficiaries through capacity building, enterprise development, financing support, and matching grants.
Separately, the DTI said that Coco Island, an enterprise specializing in high-quality coconut-based products, is set to complete its P15-million first processing facility by April.
“This initiative is set to enhance production, promote sustainability, drive regional economic growth, and ultimately boost the coconut industry in Region 12,” the DTI said.
The new facility is expected to streamline Coco Island’s processing operations and ensure high-quality eco-friendly production.
“Furthermore, it will create numerous local jobs and offer greater opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises, coconut farmers, and entrepreneurs,” the DTI said. — Justine Irish D. Tabile
