KASIBU, Nueva Vizcaya (PIA) -- The Department of Agrarian Reform has awarded a food processing facility worth P400,000 to an organization of upland farmers in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya.

The facility was awarded to the Kasibu Farmers Development Cooperative. 

The processing facility will be used for chili oil production, squash and tomato processing, among others.

Chita Bungubung, OIC-chief agrarian reform officer, said the project, which was initiated in June and completed in December will directly benefit a total of 684 active agrarian reform beneficiaries.

She said the project will foster rural development by establishing viable and profitable enterprises and facilitating access to mainstream markets for farmers and community members.

"This processing center is more than just a building. It is a symbol of empowerment and opportunity for the cooperative. Their hard work and dedication, combined with the support of DAR programs like this are paving the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for the ARBs and the entire community,” Bungubung said.

Bungubung also believes that the government intervention will open up new market opportunities to the local food processors, and further strengthen the cooperative's economic condition.

Kasibu Mayor Romeo Tayaban lauded the DAR for their unwavering support and assistance to the upland farmers in the municipality.

He also expressed his gratitude to the agency headed by Secretary Conrado Estrella III for their sustained dedication to bring rural development initiatives in the town, and its impact in uplifting the lives of upland farmers not only in Kasibu but in the entire province.

Jomar Calibuso, chairperson of the cooperative beneficiary, assured DAR of their full support, commitment, and dedication to use the processing facility in empowering their members through the development of various products for their community and other potential markets outside the town of Kasibu. 

He also expressed his gratitude to the government for providing a facility that will serve as their laboratory in developing the potential of the agrarian reform beneficiaries on food processing. (OTB/BME/PIA NVizcaya)