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THE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) officially launched the Value Chain Innovation for Sustainable Transformation in Agrarian Reform Communities (Vista) to improve the livelihood of upland farmers, particularly women, youth, and indigenous people (IPs).
The launching signaled the start of implementation of the six-year, P8 billion project, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (Ifad).
Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III underscored the importance of the project in strengthening rural communities.
“Through the Vista Project, we are increasing agricultural productivity and creating sustainable livelihoods for our farmers. This initiative reflects our commitment to reduce rural poverty, improve food security, and protect the environment,” he said.
Vista will strengthen value chains for key crops like coffee and cacao while ensuring environmental sustainability. It aims to increase farmers’ income, provide more job opportunities, and improve their resilience to climate change.
The project will cover 86 agrarian reform communities (ARCs) in two regions: the Cordillera Administrative Region (Benguet, Apayao, Ifugao, Abra, Mt. Province, and Kalinga) and Region 12 (Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, and South Cotabato). The project will provide farm machinery, equipment, and essential infrastructure such as farm-to-market roads, irrigation systems, and post-harvest facilities to support farmers.
Agrarian Reform Undersecretary and Vista Project Implementation Officer Jesry Palmares emphasized the project’s long-term impact. “VISTA is more than just an agricultural program—it empowers farmers by providing access to better technologies, financial resources, and markets. This ensures that their hard work leads to real economic benefits.”
Ifad Country Director Umit Mansiz expressed the organization’s commitment to the project. “Ifad is proud to partner with DAR to support Filipino farmers. Vista represents our shared goal of inclusive and sustainable rural development.”
The project targets 70,000 beneficiaries, of which 50 percent are women, 30 percent tribesmen or IPs, and 20 percent are youth. To ensure the project’s success and sustainability, DAR will work closely with local governments and key agencies, including the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).