P100-M agri trading center breaks ground in Quezon

A P100-million agricultural trading post broke ground in Sariaya, Quezon on Monday as part of efforts to achieve long-term food security while empowering local farmers, following the devastation brought by several typhoons in the region.

Seen to become the food hub of Southern Luzon, the Sariaya Agricultural Trading Center and Facilities (SATCF) - established due to the nearing expiration of a lease agreement - will allow farmers to directly sell high-value crops without going through middlemen.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar in a statement emphasized the role of farmers and agriculture in helping augment the food supply amid the effects of the global pandemic and the series of natural calamities that hit the region.

Quezon 2nd District Representative David Suarez, who is also the vice-chair of the House Committee on Appropriations, said the trading center will benefit residents of nearby provinces as well.

“It is important for us na maitayo itong trading post and provide extension services sa ating magsasaka. Sisiguraduhin natin na maganda ang kita nila, at pagagandahin din natin ang kanilang pagsasaka through the extension of technologies, inputs, provisions, and other assistance for them,” he said.

Suarez assured that the construction of the SATCF will start in 2021.

“Ang makikinabang dito ay buong lalawigan ng Quezon, at ang nakikita nating agricultural productivity ay manggagaling sa interaction with other sectors not just in our region, but other parts of Luzon. Ang mga mamimili natin ay nanggagaling pa sa Maynila, CALABARZON, Benguet, at iba pang mga probinsiya,” he said. -MDM, GMA News