Written and Photos, Taken by Jasp Daquigan
After a successful market matching spearheaded by Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region IV CALABARZON on February 13, 2018, some 30 cassava farmers from Brgy. San Antonio, Kalayaan, Laguna plan to get back in planting cassava.
With a hope to boost their profit from a downfall last year that made them stop planting cassava, the farmers eagerly participated in the discussion with the potential buyers to the possibility of marketing their produce.
According to Aileen M. Alcanzado, President of Calle Budin Association of Tayabas (CBAT) in Quezon, and one of the potential buyers, their association needs at least a ton of cassava every day because of high demand which really boosted the farmers’ hopes.
Likewise, one of the potential buyers Nenita N. Mamaril, owner of Net’s Cassava Cake in Los Baños, Laguna, addressed her problem on importing cassava in far provinces when in fact Kalayaan is a nearer municipality. She also emphasized her delight of having the opportunity to be a great help to the farmers as they make their deal.
Both parties then have agreed to do business after six months since the farmers do not have any standing crops as of the moment. The buyers then assured the farmers with their willingness to help them.
Cristina Goma, Provincial Corn Coordinator of Laguna, said that the DA is ready to back up the farmers on what they need as long as it undergoes the proper processes as she stated the situation of corn and cassava in Laguna.
Municipal Agriculturist of Kalayaan, Laguna Liza Yee graced the program as she welcomes the farmers and the buyers while, Fernando E. Kaharian from the Agricultural Program Coordinating Office (APCO) of Laguna delivered APCO Antonio Visitacion’s message.
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