The Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty Program (EPAHP), under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region XI, has facilitated a successful partnership between a local rice farmers’ cooperative and the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC). This initiative connects farmers directly to a stable market, promoting food security and enhancing the livelihoods of farming communities.

Recognizing the potential of hospitals as consistent buyers of agricultural products, DSWD XI identified DRMC as a partner to source their rice needs locally. The agency, along with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) XI, organized and trained the Local Rice Farmers Cooperative, preparing them to meet the hospital’s requirements.

A ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) solidified the partnership during the 11th NIA Irrigators’ Association Day. This agreement outlines responsibilities and ensures accountability among all parties involved.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from various organizations, including the Municipal Government of Carmen, DSWD XI, Department of Health (DOH) Region XI, NIA Davao del Norte, and DACOFARM, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the initiative.

DSWD XI, along with its development partners, envisions this collaboration as a model for promoting food security and empowering farmers. This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts “Para sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Buhay,” reflecting the collective goal of improving the well-being of Filipinos and the nation. (DSWD FO XI/ARD-EPAHP)

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