Farmers receiving government aid on Tuesday have been encouraged to market their produce through the newly opened government trading center in Batac City to improve access to reliable markets, secure fair prices and reduce post-harvest losses.

The assistance included the distribution of various agricultural inputs, such as hybrid rice seeds, fertilizers, insecticides, water pumps, irrigation hose and 6,000 tilapia fingerlings, to 1,987 farmers and aqua farmer beneficiaries.

During the activity, Ilocos Norte Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos and Vice Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc urged recipients to utilize the “Bagsakan” trading center, created to connect them with buyers, reduce middlemen participation and promote transparent marketing that benefits producers.

Both top provincial officials noted that using the government facility would enable farmers to sell their produce more efficiently and access market information, storage services and other support to improve agricultural incomes.

“We have a new Bagsakan Center in Batac City, and we encourage you to take advantage of it,” Manotoc said, reminding farmers of the importance of knowing the province’s actual market data and transactions for proper planning and to ensure that government aid to farmers is useful to their livelihoods.

The provincial government admitted they lack these data, so farmers are encouraged to help provide real numbers to address the missing link in the agriculture value chain.

Officials underscored that increased use of the government trading center will help create a more efficient agricultural marketing system and improve livelihoods in farming communities.

Farmers were also advised to maintain high-quality standards, proper grading and timely delivery of produce to meet market requirements and enhance their competitiveness.

To support farmers, both national and local governments here have invested in storage facilities, transportation and market infrastructure to maximize the program’s benefits.

For her part, the governor reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening agricultural value chains and supporting farmers through initiatives that advance food security, sustainable production and rural economic growth. (PNA)