Filipino Farmers Showcase Local Goods at World Bank-Supported Exhibit
Manila, Philippines (December 2, 2024) – A vibrant display of Philippine ingenuity and agricultural bounty unfolded today at an exhibition in Manila. Hosted by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and supported by the World Bank, the event showcased the work of 23 farmer groups from across the archipelago.
The exhibit, a highlight of the 18th World Bank Implementation Support Mission to the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) and the
3rd Mission to the PRDP Scale-Up, featured an array of locally-produced goods and agricultural products, underscoring the program’s success in empowering Filipino farmers.
Leading the ceremonial ribbon-cutting were key figures from the DA, World Bank, and the European Union, underscoring the international collaboration driving this initiative: Agriculture Undersecretary for Operations and Rural Credit Roger V. Navarro, Assistant Secretary and DA-PRDP National Project Director U-Nichols A. Manalo, World Bank Task Team Leader Mio Takada, and European Union representative Alex Burda.
“### **(photos by Alan Jay Jacalan, DA-AFID)**_"
The exhibit will continue through December 6th, offering visitors a firsthand look at the diversity and quality of Philippine-grown products and the entrepreneurial spirit of the farmers behind them.
## Filipino Farmers Shine at World Bank-Backed Exhibition,Showcasing Agricultural Bounty
**Manila,Philippines** – In a vibrant display of Philippine agricultural prowess,23 farmer groups from across the archipelago captivated visitors at a special exhibition in Manila. held at the department of Agriculture (DA) and supported by the World Bank, the event showcased an impressive array of locally-produced goods, highlighting the success of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in empowering Filipino farmers. We spoke with **Dr. Alicia Ibay**, an agricultural economist and long-time advocate for Philippine farmers, and **Mio Takada**, World Bank Task Team Leader for the PRDP, to delve deeper into the importance of this exhibition and the potential it represents for the future of Filipino agriculture.
**Dr. Alicia Ibay** brings decades of experience working with rural communities and agricultural cooperatives across the Philippines. **Mio Takada** leads the World Bank team overseeing the PRDP, playing a crucial role in its development and implementation.
Together, they shed light on the exhibition’s importance as a platform for showcasing the diversity, quality, and entrepreneurial spirit of Filipino farmers.
### Empowering Filipino Farmers through the PRDP
**world Today News:** Dr. Ibay, how does this exhibition contribute to the broader goals of the PRDP?
**Dr. Alicia Ibay:** The PRDP aims to strengthen the agricultural sector by empowering farmers through improved infrastructure, access to markets, and diversification of livelihoods. This exhibition provides a fantastic platform for showcasing the tangible results of these efforts. By connecting farmers directly with consumers and potential buyers, it encourages market linkages and unlocks new opportunities for growth.
**World Today News:** Mr. Takada, can you elaborate on the World bank’s role in supporting the PRDP?
**Mio Takada:** The World Bank is proud to partner with the Philippine government and the European Union in supporting the PRDP.Our role involves providing technical and financial assistance, ensuring effective project implementation, and sharing global best practices in rural development. The success we see here today is a testament to the strong collaborative effort between all stakeholders.
### From Farm to Table: Celebrating Local Diversity
**World Today News:** This exhibition features a wide variety of agricultural products.What are some examples of the ingenuity and innovation on display?
**Dr. Alicia Ibay:** We see exciting innovations in crop diversification, value-added processing, and sustainable farming practices. For example, one farmer group is showcasing organic rice varieties, safeguarding biodiversity and catering to growing consumer demand for healthy options. Another group is creating unique fruit preserves and jams, adding value to their produce and extending its shelf life.
**World Today News:** Mr. Takada, how does the PRDP empower farmers to participate in the global market?
**Mio Takada:** The PRDP supports farmers in meeting international quality standards and connecting with buyers beyond the Philippines. It provides training on Good Agricultural Practices, promotes farmer-to-farmer learning exchanges, and facilitates participation in trade fairs and exhibitions like this one.
### Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future for philippine Agriculture
**World Today News:** What are some of the key challenges facing Filipino farmers in the years ahead, and how can the PRDP address them?
**Dr. Alicia Ibay:** Climate change, fluctuating market prices, and limited access to technology remain significant challenges. The PRDP is working to build farmer resilience through climate-smart agriculture practices, market information systems, and knowledge dissemination programs.
**World Today News:** What is your vision for the future of Filipino agriculture?
**Mio Takada:** We envision a vibrant and sustainable agricultural sector that drives inclusive growth and improves the livelihoods of Filipino farmers. By continuing to invest in their capacity,fostering innovation,and connecting them to markets,we can ensure a prosperous future for Philippine agriculture.
### A Call to Action
The exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role Filipino farmers play in feeding the nation and contributing to the economy. By supporting local farmers, we can contribute to a more sustainable and food-secure future for the Philippines.
**Explore further:**
– Read more about the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) on the World Bank website: [link to World Bank PRDP page].
– Learn about the Department of Agriculture’s initiatives to support Filipino farmers: [link to DA website].
Let us know your thoughts on this initiative in the comments below!
