DAR connects South Cotabato farmers to buyers 

AGRARIAN Reform Beneficiaries’ Organizations (ARBOs) in South Cotabato showcased their products and build networks with buyers at a recent forum thanks to the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

The forum, part of the DAR’s Marketing Program, aims to secure stable and long-term markets for smallholder farmers while strengthening the local economy with fresh, high-quality agricultural products.

ARBOs hope that the platform will also lead to them receiving investments and funding for future production and planning, improving the lives of their workers, and having greater market access.

The forum was organized by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Valerie Seiton.

“This is more than just about selling farm produce — it’s about empowering our farmers to participate in the mainstream economy and giving them the dignity of self-reliance,” Ms. Seiton said.

Beyond the economic benefits for ARBOs, the DAR also intends for the meeting between the two sectors to lead to a transition to a more sustainable model, away from the traditional farming structure.

Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer Lorna Garde thanked buyers for supporting local products. — Andre Christopher H. Alampay