Vintar: A two-day agro-trade fair showcasing the freshest organic produce of farmers, as well as other food products and genuine crafts, marked this municipality's celebration of Siwawer Farmers' Festival, which culminated on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, a total of 39 booths representing the different barangays and development partners of Vintar participated in the event, which showcased local products that told a story of hard work, community and pride. In-season fruits and vegetables, as well as wild honey, exotic freshwater prawns, and assorted fishes, were among the most sought-after products at the fair.

"This initiative strongly encourages the public to go local," Erwin Suguitan, municipal tourism officer of Vintar, said in an interview. "This direct support is a powerful way to boost local agriculture and to significantly increase the income of our food providers."

The festival was organized by the municipal government of Vintar through the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO). "The event is a tribute to farmers and fisherfolk in recognition of their critical role in ensuring there is always food on the table for everyone," MAO officer-in-charge Maricel Serrano said.

Aside from the display of local products, farmers and other stakeholders also gained access to the latest agricultural technologies and innovations from research agencies, including the state-run Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) and the Philippine Carabao Center, through a forum. Among the technologies and innovations promoted were the use of National Seed Industry Council-registered MMSU glutinous corn varieties; the enhanced corn production technology featuring the modified double-row planting technique; garlic disease identification and management to help farmers safeguard their yield; the processing and health benefits of black garlic, a value-adding product that continues to gain strong market interest; and bamboo species and propagation technologies, with emphasis on the efficient one-node cutting method.

By bringing science-based, locally developed technologies closer to farmers, MMSU research director Dr. Dionisio Bucao expressed hope for improved farm practices in Vintar resulting in enhanced productivity, sustainable resource management, and better livelihood opportunities in rural communities.