The National Irrigation Administration in the Davao Region (NIA-11) has once again launched the “PalitAni sa Onse,” an agricultural expo and trade fair for rice farmers at its regional office here on Tuesday.

In his speech, Engr. Dexter Sablaon, acting regional manager of NIA-11, said the two-day event aims to connect farmers directly with consumers, offering farm-fresh products at lower prices while boosting farmers’ income.

Fresh produce, including rice, fruits, vegetables, meats, and poultry products, is being showcased by farmer-beneficiaries of NIA-11 from across the region.

“I want to emphasize that the farmers are the main reason we have the PalitAni. You are our partners and allies in irrigation development,” Sablaon said, adding that PalitAni is a marketing model supported by NIA Administrator Eduardo Guillen.

“With this, our farmers can directly connect with consumers without going through traders and middlemen,” Sablaon added.

He also committed to making “PalitAni sa Onse” a permanent program to support Kadiwa sa NIA, aiming for the region’s irrigation associations to develop robust market links that can reach more consumers and households.

“This way, we open up greater opportunities for greater profit margins and better livelihoods for our farmers,” Sablaon said. (PNA)