COTABATO CITY – A total of Php185,652 was successfully generated by 16 cooperatives of farmers, fisherfolk, and agrarian reform beneficiaries who participated as exhibitors in the MAFARLENGKE Trade Fair on January 21-23, 2025.
The event, which was held during the Bangsamoro Foundation Day celebration, was spearheaded by the Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) in collaboration with the Fisheries Post-Harvest Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR).
MAFAR Minister Mohammad S. Yacob, Ph.D., highlighted the ministry’s unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering farmers and fisherfolk.
“Ang MAFAR, from the production, processing, and marketing, ay committed to supporting farmers. Kasi ang ultimate objective namin ay lahat ng farmers ay maging proud as farmers and all fisherfolk maging proud as fisherfolk,” Minister Yacob said.
“Through this effort, we are supporting farmers while also aiding the Bangsamoro government by reducing prices despite the rising cost of commodities in the market,” stated Director General for Agrarian Reform Services Taugan Kikay, Ph.D.
The event not only celebrated the achievements of local agricultural and fisheries sectors but also served as a platform for cooperatives to showcase their products and connect with new markets. It exemplified MAFAR’s dedication to fostering economic growth and sustainability for grassroots producers in the Bangsamoro region.
Through initiatives like the MAFARLENGKE
Trade Fair, the ministry continues to support local industries, create opportunities for rural communities, and ensure that farmers and fisherfolk are recognized as vital contributors to the region’s development.
The closing program was attended by prominent MAFAR officials, including Deputy Minister Aisha D. Abdullah-Sanggacala, Ph.D., Bangsamoro Director General for Fisheries Services Pendatun S. Patarasa, MPA, Director General for Agriculture Services Engr. Ismail A. Guiamel, Director General for Agrarian Reform Services Taugan S. Kikay, Ph.D., and AMAD Chief Datu Hamsur Zaid. Their participation highlighted the ministry’s cohesive leadership in promoting agricultural and fisheries advancement in the region.
