Bacolod: At least 24 exhibitors from various farmers' associations and partner agencies in Negros Occidental are selling agricultural produce and other items at the week-long RNegros Farmers Fair that kicked off at Robinsons Bacolod on Monday. The annual event for locally sourced products is the mall management's collaboration with the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) and the Department of Agriculture-Negros Island Region (DA-NIR).

According to Philippines News Agency, DAR-NIR Regional Technical Director for Operations Alejandro Rafal emphasized the significance of the RNegros Farmers Fair as a celebration of local enterprise and agricultural pride. He applauded the Negros Occidental provincial government and Robinsons Bacolod for their support of Negrense farmers and agripreneurs. Rafal highlighted the event as a testament to the strength and creativity of local farmers and agripreneurs, particularly farmers' cooperatives and associations, who are eager to participate in the movement toward local sourcing and sustainable markets.

This year's exhibitors include the Rural Improvement Club Women Entrepreneurs Association, Kumaliskis Integrated Social Forestry Farmer Association, and the Association of Young Agripreneurs in Negros, among others. These groups are joined by partner agencies such as the DA-NIR, Negros Occidental OPA and Technology Livelihood and Development Center, and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

The RNegros Farmers Fair, which began in 2021, has benefited around 6,000 farmers and fisherfolk in Negros Occidental. It promotes their agricultural products and empowers them through direct market exposure, offering a significant platform for local farmers to showcase their resilience and resourcefulness.