The Department of Agriculture (DA) has deployed 18 trucks to transport excess vegetables from Benguet to major markets, including Metro Manila, following reports of oversupply affecting local farmers.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the move aims to help farmers sell their produce and prevent waste. The trucks include DA-owned vehicles, regional units, and those provided to cooperatives, with fuel costs covered by the agency.
The DA, through its KADIWA program, is coordinating with logistics teams to connect farmers to buyers in urban areas. The oversupply problem has been worsened by high fuel prices, which have limited traders’ ability to transport goods.
Tiu Laurel said the situation is complex but the transport initiative will provide immediate relief.
To address long-term issues, the DA is building a Mega Cold Storage facility that can store up to 5,000 tons of produce, expected to open next year. Additional modular storage units are also being deployed to help reduce waste and stabilize prices.
The agency is also expanding distribution by linking Benguet farms to more KADIWA sites beyond local trading centers.
Tiu Laurel said he will visit Baguio to assess the situation and ensure farmers receive support, reaffirming the DA’s commitment to improving supply chains and protecting farmers’ income.
