MinDA eyes centralized market to boost Mindanao farmers’ livelihoods and ensure food security

DAVAO CITY—– The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), led by Chairperson Secretary Leo Magno, has announced an ambitious plan to establish a centralized marketplace to support Mindanao’s farmers and strengthen food security across the region.

The announcement was made during the Mindanao Farmers’ Summit on Thursday, December 12, 2024, attended by over 800 farmers from across the island.

Magno emphasized that the initiative is integral to achieving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of revitalizing the agricultural sector and ensuring sustainable food production for the nation. “Farmers are the backbone of our country’s food supply. By addressing the gaps in market access, we not only improve their livelihoods but also enhance the resilience of Mindanao’s food systems,” he said.

A lack of a centralized market was highlighted as one of the critical issues affecting Mindanao’s agricultural sector. Many farmers struggle with middlemen who erode their profits, reducing their capacity to invest in better inputs and technologies.

“By creating a government-supported marketplace, we can cut out the middlemen, enabling farmers to retain a larger share of the income from their produce. This initiative is a step toward building a self-sufficient and food-secure Mindanao,” Magno stated.

The summit also saw the formalization of partnerships aimed at advancing sustainable agricultural practices. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between the Center for Asian Mission for the Poor (CAMP ASIA Inc.) and the Davao Mt. Apo Farmers Agricultural Cooperative (DAMAFACO). CAMP ASIA committed to providing technical support and facilitating access to markets, while DAMAFACO pledged to strengthen farmer cooperation and collective action.

In addition, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) donated a truck to DAMAFACO. This contribution is expected to significantly reduce transportation costs for crops and equipment, enhancing operational efficiency and enabling farmers to bring more produce to market.

Such initiatives underscore the importance of logistical support in ensuring that fresh, affordable produce reaches consumers while minimizing waste.

The centralized marketplace aligns with MinDA’s broader goal of creating a robust agricultural value chain to ensure food security for the region and beyond. The marketplace will serve as a hub for farmers to sell their produce directly to buyers, increasing transparency in pricing and reducing post-harvest losses. This strategy supports a more equitable and resilient food system, crucial for meeting the growing demands of both local and national markets.

Magno expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their active participation in the summit and their contributions to Mindanao’s agricultural development. He stressed the importance of collaboration between local governments, farmer organizations, private entities, and international partners.

“MinDA is committed to working hand-in-hand with all stakeholders to ensure the sustainability and growth of Mindanao’s agricultural sector. Together, we can build a thriving future for our farmers and their families while securing food for the generations to come,” he said.

The Mindanao Farmers’ Summit reaffirmed MinDA’s dedication to empowering farmers and fostering economic stability. With the establishment of a centralized marketplace and partnerships aimed at reducing costs, increasing profitability, and promoting sustainability, MinDA is laying the groundwork for a food-secure Mindanao. The initiative promises to uplift not just the farmers but also the communities they serve, ensuring that Mindanao remains a vital contributor to the nation’s agricultural output and food supply.

By prioritizing food security alongside farmer livelihoods, MinDA is shaping a sustainable agricultural future, addressing challenges in market access, and driving inclusive growth across the island.