The Magarao Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) and the San Agustin–San Ramon Agrarian Reform Farmers’ Cooperative (SARFC) have completed Step 3 of the Agro-Enterprise Clustering Approach (AECA) in separate sessions held on October 22 and 23, 2025, in the municipalities of Magarao and Bula, Camarines Sur.
The activity forms part of the initiatives of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 5 under the Farm and Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) Program-Field Operation program, which aims to empower farmers and cooperative members by enhancing their agribusiness capacities, improving market access, and promoting sustainable growth in the local agricultural economy, specifically on rice.
During the activity, members of the MPC and SARFC conducted a market mapping exercise to identify and analyze potential markets for their rice products. They also engaged in a role-playing session, simulating interactions and negotiations with prospective buyers and institutional partners. These practical exercises strengthen their communication, coordination, and negotiation skills in preparation for real-world market engagements and enterprise management.
The training was facilitated by the F2C2 team, who also served as resource persons, is composed of Ms. Karren A. Belen, Business Development Officer; Engr. Debbie M. Pante, Organizational Development Officer; and Ms. Arles G. Boaloy, Project Development Officer, under the supervision of Ms. Marilene M. Dimaculangan, F2C2 Focal Person.
The Local Government Unit of Magarao, through OIC Municipal Agriculturist Emeumasil S. Nacario supported this initiative by serving as the Lead Implementer of the activity. Also supporting the training is Ms. Sophia S. Elano of the Department of Agrarian Reform.
The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, represented by Mr. Marvin R. Molin and Ms. Leah B. Sumalinog, together with the Department of Trade and Industry, represented by Engr. Maricris O. Guiriba and Engr. John Ray R. Carriaga, acted as co-facilitators and part of the Resource Group.
Through this collaborative initiative among F2C2, the involved cooperatives, LGUs, CBSUA, DTI, and other partner agencies, the program continues to pave the way toward more resilient, market-oriented, and competitive farming communities in Camarines Sur. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘔𝘳. 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘯 𝘔𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘯
