DA-Cordillera Connects Ifugao Tomato Farmers to Baguio Markets Through Kadiwa Initiative
BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Agriculture-Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) is strengthening market access for tomato farmers in Ifugao by linking them directly to buyers in Baguio City through its Kadiwa initiative.
DA-CAR Regional Director Jennilyn Dawayan said the effort forms part of the agency’s continuing marketing support program for tomatoes, particularly during the peak production season in the Cordillera highlands.
Around 10 tons of tomatoes from Ifugao were delivered to Baguio City from Tuesday to Thursday and sold at PHP20 per kilogram, offering consumers affordable produce while providing farmers with a steady market.
Dawayan explained that from November to February, the region experienced cooler highland temperatures that are highly favorable for tomato cultivation. These conditions help improve fruit development, including better size, color, and overall quality, while reduced rainfall compared to peak monsoon months helps limit crop diseases.
With tomato production expected to remain high from December through March, the DA has been proactively strengthening market support systems ahead of the peak harvest.
Instead of waiting for potential market disruptions, Dawayan said the agency builds partnerships early with buyers and institutional markets to ensure stable demand and better pricing for farmers.
The initiative is also part of the agency’s ongoing collaboration with the Cordillera Association of Regional Executives (CARE) and urban communities during the month of March.
Through the Kadiwa truck program, the DA delivers bulk orders of tomatoes and other farm products to various government offices in the city. Orders are consolidated from employees in participating agencies, allowing them to purchase fresh produce directly from farmers at lower prices.
Aside from tomatoes, the Kadiwa truck also carries eggs, vegetables, and other agricultural products.
Dawayan added that the DA continues to expand market channels by linking farmers to institutional and inter-provincial buyers, while also raising awareness of available farm products and educating producers on market standards.
Part of the agency’s long-term strategy includes improved production planning and organizing farmers into clusters to better coordinate planting schedules, enhance efficiency, and reduce post-harvest losses.
The DA is also working with partner agencies to promote value-adding and processing of farm produce, which can extend shelf life and reduce farmers’ reliance on the fresh market.
Through these coordinated measures, Dawayan said the department aims to secure sustainable market opportunities, improve incomes for tomato farmers, and build a more responsive agricultural marketing system.
NPO NEWS TEAM i PNA-PR
