BAMBANG, Nueva Vizcaya (PIA) — The Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal (NVAT) here has recently launched its Food Pantry Program (FPP) to help reduce vegetable and fruit wastage while supporting local farmers.
NVAT consultant Gilbert Cumila said the terminal has partnered with various organizations to connect farmers’ excess produce with consumers through a barter system.
Under the initiative, farmers can exchange surplus agricultural products for essential food items, consumer goods, and other basic necessities provided by NVAT’s partner organizations.
“In one of our activities, 10,000 tons of agricultural products at NVAT were bartered with our partners,” Cumila said.
He added that these partner organizations source the food and goods from various companies as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs. In turn, the farmers’ excess produce is distributed through food banks and charitable initiatives.
“This will ensure that surplus food reaches those in need while minimizing waste,” Cumila emphasized.
The FPP was launched to address the persistent issue of food waste and the recurring surplus of fruits and vegetables among farmers, disposers, and traders at NVAT.
Cumila further explained that the program is expected to ease the financial burden on farmers, especially during periods of oversupply and low market prices. (ALM/BME/PIA Nueva Vizcaya)
