Farmers get spaces in malls, restaurants

MANILA, Philippines — Farmers will be given spaces in malls and restaurants as part of governments efforts to provide livelihood and source of income to them amid the pandemic.

The Department of Agriculture has inked a memorandum of understanding with SM Supermalls and Resto PH, a group of restaurant owners with outlets situated at various malls, for a joint project called the Farmers Produce.

The project aims to provide livelihood support for farmers and fishermen and help in rebooting the restaurant industry amid the pandemic.

“This win-win solution will immensely help us reboot the economy, demonstrating the need to strengthen our food production and distribution systems during crisis and non-crisis situations,” Agriculture Secretary William Dar said.

The Farmers Produce aims to extend accessible and affordable food for consumers through a venue that is safe for the public where health protocols are strictly observed by mall operators.

Under the agreement, SM will provide underutilized spaces free of charge for farmers and cooperatives for the selling of their local produce including herbs and seedlings, dairy products, condiments and seasonings, local beverages and wines.

The participating members of Resto PH will also prepare various menus utilizing farmers’ produce.

The project will be participated by Cada Farmers Agriculture Cooperative for highland vegetables, L. Sanchez Farm for lowland vegetables, Liwon Namal Farmers Tomato Association, Optimum Health Poultry and Livestock Farm Corp., National Dairy Authority, Pasciolco Agri Ventures for coconut-based condiment, Balai Kabute Farm, and Mira’s Turmeric Products.

Vikings, Terry’s, Teriyaki Bros., Eggs & Breakfast Café, King Chef, 102 Izakaya, Mamou, Tasteless Group, Bag O’ Shrimps, JT’s Manukan, Mango Tree, Genki Sushi, Kureji, Cocina Peruvia, and Sen Ryo are among the current partners.

The Farmers Produce is open to the public from Friday to Sunday.  However, the DA plans to open more outlets seven days a week in other malls nationwide.