DAR Negros Occidental 2 Hosts Week-long Agrarian Agripreneurial Expo 2019

In celebration of the 31st CARP Anniversary, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Negros Occidental 2 (South) is facilitating an Agrarian Agripreneurial Expo 2019 from June 24 until June 30, 2019 at the Ayala Malls Capitol Bacolod.

The expo intends to showcase the products developed by various farmers all over the island of Negros Occidental, particularly the different produce(s) of DAR-assisted farmer groups more commonly known as Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries’ Organizations (ARBOs). 

Formerly called as Program Beneficiaries Development Division (PBDD), the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development and Sustainability Program (ARBDSP), had identified several ARBOs that will participate by displaying their products during the event. Some of these ARBOs are recipients of various programs, which include, among others, Village Level Farm-Focused Enterprise Development (VLFED), LinkSFarm and Product Development. 

"Let it be known that the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program does not end with the distribution of lands to the landless farmers." PARPO II Teresita R. Mabunay said in her welcoming message.

"As a wholistic approach to the objective of the program which is to alleviate farmers from poverty and provide them (farmers) and their families with a better, more financially stable future, DAR extends its services to post-land distribution. The DAR is mandated to deliver a more responsive and integrated package of support services to the ARBs and their organization to make the lands productive. This is the very reason why the DAR’s Support Services engaged the services of various institutions and individual experts from both the public and private sectors that can provide development support that will enable the program beneficiaries to produce market-competitive products through value addition, competently manage and operate their enterprises and livelihood activities, and actively participate at the industry level.”

She further invited all citizens to show their support to local farmers by visiting the expo and purchasing locally-sourced and manufactured goods like muscovado, sinamak, virgin coconut oil and moisturizing soap, ground coffee, oatmeal cookies, taro and carrot chips along with fresh fruits.

The event also includes film showing of different ARBO Success Stories, highlighting the different struggles and accomplishments of the local farmers since the beginning of the program.

Additionally, tables have been set up for free consultation regarding the Department's land reform, legalities and support services, to further the knowledge, awareness and understanding of the public to DAR's many components and programs.

This event demonstrates the Department's full on support and appreciation of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) who are pivotal to the success of agrarian reform in the country.