In a significant step towards addressing hunger and poverty, the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty Program (EPAHP) , National Irrigation Administration (NIA) , Irrigators’ Associations (IAs) and National Food Authority inks 10 (Ten) New Marketing Agreements.

These agreements creates a direct market for the farmers’ produce, primarily rice, ensuring that the crops are purchased at fair prices. The NFA, tasked with maintaining the stability of rice supply and prices, will now have a steady stream of high-quality rice from the participating Irrigators’ Associations (IA), while farmers benefit from secure and stable income.

Under this agreement, the NFA commits to buying rice from the IAs, eliminating the need for middlemen and ensuring that farmers receive a fair share of the market price. This arrangement helps stabilize the rice supply, especially in areas where food insecurity is prevalent, while contributing to the broader national goal of reducing poverty.

The collaboration between the EPAHP, NIA, IAs, and NFA marks a major milestone in the fight against hunger and poverty in the region. By streamlining the supply chain from farmers to consumers, this initiative not only supports the livelihoods of local farmers but also enhances the country’s food security. With the signing of the Marketing Agreement, the partnership has set the stage for a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural sector, positioning the Caraga region to meet its long-term development goals.