Gov. Sol Aragones launched the “Laguna Pantry” on Monday, providing free fresh vegetables to communities while purchasing directly from local farmers to bolster food security.

The program buys produce for distribution across four provincial districts, aiding both residents and growers amid the current crisis.

“Hindi tayo papayag na hindi tayo tutulong. Naisip po namin na maglagay ng Laguna Pantry. Natulungan na natin ang publiko, natulungan din natin ang mga farmers (We won’t stand idle without helping. We decided to set up the Laguna Pantry. We’ve helped the public, and we’ve also helped our farmers),” Aragones said in a message emphasizing the initiative’s purpose.

Aragones added that the program will initially prioritize purchasing vegetables from farmers in Nagcarlan, in coordination with Mayor Elmor Vita. As the implementation expands, the province will source produce directly from farmers in each district to ensure wider support for local agriculture while sustaining a continuous supply for beneficiaries.

The rollout follows a phased implementation and scheduled distribution system to ensure orderly and fair access for the public.

Officials expect to expand the program to other districts in the coming days, depending on available resources and the harvest supply from local farmers. (PNA)