The “Agri Konek Food Summit” recently held at the Cebu Provincial Capitol has opened new doors for Cebuano farmers, providing them access to institutional buyers and paving the way for sustainable agricultural partnerships. The event brought together farmers, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders to foster connections, share best practices, and promote local farm produce in larger markets.
Boljoon Farmers Supply Nonki Japanese Restaurant
On September 1, Johnny Cairo, president of the San Antonio Farmers’ Association in Boljoon, made the group’s first delivery to Nonki Japanese Restaurant in Mandaue City. The order included over 206 kilos of cabbage and several bundles of spring onions, received by Chrislee Arong, Nonki’s Vice President for General Kitchen.
Joining Cairo was Benedict Que, Overall Chair of the Agri Konek Food Summit and CCCI Champion for Agriculture, highlighting the support from both private and public sectors.
This delivery represents a significant shift for Cebuano farmers. Instead of relying solely on wet markets, they are entering institutional supply agreements, which provide stable demand, predictable pricing, and a broader customer base.
Agri Konek Food Summit
Held on August 4–5 at the Capitol Social Hall, the summit brought together stakeholders across the agricultural value chain. Organized by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), Philippine Inno Ventures Agriculture Cooperative (PIVAC), Cebu Provincial Government, and the Department of Agriculture–7, it aimed to:
- Share best farming practices to improve yield and product quality.
- Introduce technological innovations to enhance productivity and logistics.
- Facilitate business-to-business networking, connecting farmers directly with buyers.
Dr. Roldan Saragena, Cebu Provincial Agriculturist, emphasized the summit’s impact:
“Cebuano farmers are now moving beyond traditional market selling, venturing into institutional partnerships that ensure better income and stability.”
Expanding Market Opportunities
Nonki has expressed interest in sourcing additional produce, including: carrots, pechay, eggplant, garlic, ginger, lettuce, cucumber, radish, okra, parsley, potato, squash, tomato, onions, calamansi, watermelon, pineapple, oranges, mangoes, and lakatan bananas.
Other businesses are following this trend. A popular shake brand is negotiating supply from Dumanjug farmers, while a well-known bakery chain has requested various locally sourced products. This growing demand signals a promising future for Cebuano farmers and encourages them to increase production.
Government Support: Empowering Farmers
The Cebu Provincial Government, under Governor Pamela Baricuatro, plays a vital role in supporting local farmers. Collaborations with agencies like the Department of Agriculture–7 and PIVAC provide technical assistance, access to modern farming technologies, and market linkages.
Dr. Saragena stated:
“We continue to create opportunities for farmers to market their products effectively and sustainably. Institutional partnerships like these give farmers a platform to grow and thrive.”
Government initiatives also encourage more institutional buyers to source locally, boosting the province’s agricultural economy while supporting grassroots communities.
Benefits of Institutional Partnerships
Institutional supply agreements offer several advantages for farmers:
- Stable income: Farmers can plan production without worrying about fluctuating market prices.
- Market expansion: Products reach larger audiences, including restaurants, hotels, and catering services.
- Improved quality: Consistent contracts motivate farmers to adopt better farming and post-harvest practices.
- Fair pricing: Direct agreements reduce dependency on middlemen, ensuring farmers receive appropriate compensation.
These partnerships are a long-term solution to strengthen Cebu’s agriculture sector, improve livelihoods, and ensure food security.
Modernizing Farming in Cebu
The summit also highlighted technological innovations that can help farmers improve efficiency and connectivity. Tools like mobile apps for market tracking, online ordering platforms, and farm management software enable farmers to:
- Monitor crop growth and health
- Forecast market demand
- Plan harvest schedules
- Streamline logistics and deliveries
By integrating technology, Cebuano farmers can compete in modern, tech-driven markets while maximizing productivity and profitability.
Farmers as Drivers of the Local Economy
Cebuano farmers play a crucial role in driving the local economy. Partnerships forged at the summit demonstrate that collaboration between farmers and institutional buyers benefits all parties:
- Restaurants and institutions gain access to fresh, high-quality produce.
- Farmers secure a stable income and sustainable production.
- Communities enjoy economic growth and job creation.
These initiatives align with the province’s vision for sustainable development, balancing economic growth with support for grassroots communities.
Future Opportunities for Farmers
The success of Boljoon farmers with Nonki Japanese Restaurant sets the stage for replication across other municipalities. With increasing interest from institutional buyers, more farmers are expected to engage in direct supply contracts, adopt modern techniques, and expand production.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro expressed her commitment to supporting such initiatives:
“Agri Konek is just the beginning. We envision a future where Cebuano farmers not only feed their communities but also thrive through partnerships that value their hard work and dedication.”
These steps promise a sustainable future for Cebu’s agricultural sector, ensuring that farmers continue to play a central role in the province’s economic growth.
A New Era for Cebuano Agriculture
The Agri Konek Food Summit links Cebuano farmers with buyers, boosting quality, sustainability, and agri-market growth.
With ongoing government support, private sector collaboration, and technology integration, Cebuano farmers are now poised to lead the province’s agricultural economy, ensuring long-term prosperity for themselves and the communities they serve.
