Camp John Hay, Communities Unite to Expand Market Access for Cordillera Farmers

AGRI-NEWS | Farming Posted on 2026-06-01 23:36:15

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – A strong spirit of Filipino bayanihan is helping Cordillera farmers overcome market challenges as government agencies, private sector partners, local communities, and consumers join forces to create new opportunities for agricultural producers affected by temporary vegetable oversupply.

The Department of Agriculture–Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) on Monday commended the collective efforts being undertaken to support farmers and ensure that their harvests reach consumers while maintaining sustainable livelihoods in farming communities.

“Everybody—the private sector, government offices, and individuals—is working together to help our farmers, and we are grateful that the Filipino tradition of bayanihan remains strong as they navigate these challenges,” said DA-CAR Regional Director Jennilyn Dawayan.

The region has experienced an increase in vegetable production, particularly cabbage, following favorable planting decisions by farmers who responded to strong market demand in previous seasons. While the resulting oversupply has temporarily affected prices, stakeholders have mobilized quickly to provide market solutions and strengthen agricultural support systems.

To assist farmers, DA-CAR has deployed Kadiwa trucks, subsidized transportation costs from farms to buyers, and expanded linkages with cooperatives and institutional buyers outside the Cordillera region. These initiatives are helping producers access broader markets and reduce post-harvest losses.

Dawayan emphasized the importance of enhancing crop management strategies and strengthening coordination among stakeholders to ensure long-term market stability and sustainable agricultural growth.

“We are seeing the commitment of everyone to help farmers market their products. This is a positive development, and with stronger coordination among stakeholders, we can build a more resilient agricultural sector moving forward,” she said.

She also highlighted the growing competitiveness of Philippine agriculture, noting that highland vegetables traditionally associated with the Cordillera region are now being cultivated successfully in other parts of the country, including the Ilocos Region, Visayas, and Mindanao.

According to Dawayan, regional collaboration among agricultural stakeholders is already underway to improve production planning, market forecasting, and information-sharing mechanisms that will benefit farmers nationwide.

A major boost to the recovery effort came through a partnership between the John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC), a subsidiary of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and the municipalities of Bakun and Buguias in Benguet.

Through a newly signed memorandum of understanding, local farmers now have access to a dedicated vegetable recovery and direct-selling venue at Scout Hill, Camp John Hay. The rolling market, which opened on May 30, provides consumers with direct access to fresh, high-quality Cordillera produce while creating additional income opportunities for farming communities.

JHMC President and Chief Executive Officer Manjit Singh Reandi said the initiative reflects Camp John Hay’s commitment to supporting local communities and strengthening agricultural value chains.

“Camp John Hay welcomes collaboration with a strong focus on community. Together, let us build a gateway for farmers beyond Benguet, bridging the gap between farms and markets while strengthening agricultural connections,” Reandi said.

The rolling market initiative demonstrates how government agencies, local governments, and private-sector partners can work together to create innovative solutions that empower farmers, expand market access, and strengthen food security across the country.

As stakeholders continue to collaborate, the initiative serves as a model for sustainable agricultural development and highlights the resilience and determination of Filipino farmers in feeding the nation.

 NPO News Team | PNA-PR

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