Davao: The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) - Davao Region has further strengthened market linkages for local agricultural producers through its annual 'PalitAni sa Onse' trade fair. The two-day event, which began Tuesday, allows Dabawenyos to buy fresh produce and products directly from farmer-beneficiaries across the region's provinces.

According to Philippines News Agency, NIA-Davao Manager Dexter Sablaon stated that the event, now in its fourth year, is a regional implementation of the national 'KADIWA sa NIA program' and part of the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) initiative. He emphasized that the initiative provides local farmers and irrigators' associations (IAs) with a platform to present fresh agricultural yields directly to the public at fair and affordable prices.

Sablaon remarked that the trade fair gives IAs the opportunity to deliver fresh products directly to consumers. He described the booths as a reflection of a "Feast of Abundance," with products representing the harvest of hard work and hope.

Looking ahead, Sablaon expressed optimism for the trade fair's long-term sustainability and urged public support for local food producers and regional irrigation infrastructure initiatives. He conveyed hope that 'PalitAni sa Onse' will continue beyond its fourth year, reaching more people and supporting farmers and irrigation projects. Sablaon thanked the farmers for their dedication and hard work.

PalitAni aims to bridge the gap between IAs and consumers by offering direct market access.