THE Zamboanga City Government has earmarked P40 million in its 2019 budget for agricultural development.
Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar made this announcement Friday, May 24, before the exhibitors as the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) rolled out the AgriVenta in this city.
Salazar said she is pressing for infrastructure projects to improve accessibility for producers and consumers, and agricultural support services from national government agencies to improve the quality of this city’s agricultural products.
“It [agricultural products] has to be really quality, sustainable, and acceptable to the market. So we are taking on this challenge. Fix the infrastructure, ask the DA to come in, to help in the quality of our products,” the mayor added.
She encouraged farmers and local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to continue innovating and create more products.
She recognized local farmers and producers from the region who converged in this city for a three-day agribusiness exhibit showcasing various agricultural products.
A total of 37 MSMEs and 11 national government agencies are participating in the exhibit themed Agri-based MSMEs: Greater Opportunities through Improved Productivity and Profitability Amidst Market Challenges.
Salazar also lauded the organizers for staging the event that showcases the products of MSMEs from all over Zamboanga Peninsula. (Bong Garcia/SunStar Philippines)