Government Steps In to Support Onion Farmers with FTI Purchases
The Department of Agriculture has announced a significant intervention to assist local onion farmers. In a move aimed at stabilizing the market and preventing unreasonable buying prices, the Food Terminal Incorporated will commence purchasing local onions starting next week. This decision comes in direct response to appeals from farmers who are preparing for the peak harvest season in March.
Strategic Focus on Major Producing Regions
During a recent Zoom interview, DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa revealed that the FTI will prioritize key onion-producing areas across the country. "If I'm not mistaken, they're about to start next week the buying of onions, both red and white onions," de Mesa stated. He emphasized that the initiative will concentrate on regions with the highest output.
The primary focus will be on Central Luzon, particularly Nueva Ecija, followed by the Mimaropa region, which includes Mindoro. Additional onion-producing areas in Ilocos and Cagayan Valley will also be part of the procurement strategy. This targeted approach ensures that the government's support reaches the heart of the onion farming community.
Infrastructure and Pricing Commitments
To facilitate this large-scale purchase, the FTI has already secured storage capacity for 50,000 bags of onions, each weighing 28 kilograms, in cold storage facilities. This preparation underscores the scale of the operation and the government's commitment to managing the supply chain effectively.
Importantly, the FTI has assured that the buying price for onions will be set at levels that are fair to farmers. This commitment aims to provide economic stability and prevent exploitation during the critical harvest period. The initiative reflects a broader effort to balance market dynamics while supporting agricultural livelihoods.
As the peak harvest season approaches, this timely intervention by the Department of Agriculture and FTI is expected to alleviate pressure on farmers and ensure a more equitable distribution of resources. The move highlights the ongoing collaboration between government agencies and the agricultural sector to address pressing issues in food production and pricing.
