• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
The Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, through its Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC), is set to open the ‘Capitolyo Supermarket’ at Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary, providing opportunities for farmers and consumers alike.
Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II, provincial administrator, stated that approximately 40 farmers from Barangays Minoyan and San Miguel in Murcia town will be employed by the province to supply produce.
Diaz added that the supermarket will source products directly from those farmers, which will then be sold in the stores within Mambukal and to its employees. The initiative aims to establish a direct link between local farmers and consumers, while creating community employment opportunities.
“The supermarket is designed to bridge the gap between producers and consumers, reduce post-harvest losses, and ensure that fresher vegetables reach the market more quickly,” Diaz emphasized.
Farmers will receive seeds and wages to support sustainable livelihoods, contributing to the province’s food security initiatives.
“Last Friday, we had a discussion with at least 40 farmers. We will utilize their services to develop and enhance the province’s food security. They will produce vegetables, high-value crops, and other products that will be used by our stores under the Economic Enterprise Development Department (EEDD) in Mambukal,” Diaz explained.
He also stressed the importance of helping farmers sell their crops immediately to prevent wastage, noting that “even with high-end storage facilities, crops are still vulnerable to decay.”
The farmers involved already have their own farm lots for crop production, and the province will provide support to ensure the success of their efforts.*
