LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – A financial support amounting to P2,605,892 has been approved by the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines for the project titled “The Project for the Provision of a Refrigerated Delivery Truck for Small-scale Farmers in Ilocos Norte.”

Under the embassy’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), the grant will help the Bacarra Multi-purpose Cooperative to procure a refrigerated truck for small-scale farmers.

Some farmers in Ilocos Norte rely mostly on middlemen and rented vehicles due to limited access to transporting their crops.

Because of this, farmers face high brokerage fees, fewer market options, and crop loss.

Through this assistance from the Japan Embassy, they will be assisted in improving their supply operations and ultimately, boosting their earnings.

In his message, Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko shared Japan’s continuing strategic partnership and commitment in providing aid for grassroots projects in the Philippines toward achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.

“Together, we embark on a journey to enhance local livelihoods and uplift communities,” said the Japan Embassy in its official social media page.

Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc also attended the ceremonial signing of the grant contract and conveyed his gratitude for the support of the Japan Embassy in the province.

The grant for Ilocos Norte farmers is the latest addition to the 561 grassroots projects implemented through GGP. (JCR/MJTAB PIA Ilocos Norte)