Rising fuel costs have been squeezing Benguet farmers for years, but DMCI Homes is helping them turn the tide with a fresh approach.
The property developer has set up Weekend Market with Tuba Farmers program to bring farmers directly to Metro Manila condominium communities, giving them direct access to buyers and a steadier income.
Launched in May 2025 in partnership with the Tuba Agri Tourism Community (TATC), the initiative allows local farmers to sell vegetables, fruits, and homegrown products without the usual hurdles of oversupply, limited cold storage, and costly logistics.
In a region where transport costs rise sharply with fuel prices, the program helps farmers avoid losses before their produce even reaches the city.
“Before, many of our farmers expected to lose money before leaving the farm,” says TATC Vice Chairperson Jennelyn Saingan. “Now they can earn more while minimizing waste and reaching more consumers directly.”
Since its debut, the Weekend Market has held 45 market days across 17 DMCI Homes communities, generating P5.6 million in gross sales and distributing 37 tons of fresh produce to 11,000 residents. Farmers’ average monthly income rose from P8,805 to P24,061, while production increased from 7 tons to 19.5 tons in just the first quarter of 2026.
For residents of DMCI Homes’ developments, the benefits are just as clear. They enjoy convenient access to fresh, locally sourced produce without additional travel, while also supporting sustainable farming communities in Benguet.
The program strengthens connections between urban consumers and rural producers, reducing food wastage and ensuring fair compensation for farmers.
The Weekend Market demonstrates how thoughtful urban-rural partnerships can create a win-win scenario. It is a model of innovation that keeps communities nourished, farmers thriving, and fresh produce flowing from the highlands straight to city tables.
