The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III (DA-RFO 3) strengthened market access and financing opportunities for organized farmers and fisherfolk from Bulacan and Tarlac through a two-day Agri-Credit and Market Linkage Forum held October 15–16 in Angeles City.

Organized under the Farm and Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) Program, the forum brought together selected agricultural clusters, local government representatives, institutional buyers, and financial institutions to help farmers expand their businesses and secure sustainable markets.

F2C2 Program Focal Person Dr. Maricel L. Dullas emphasized the forum’s role in connecting production-ready clusters with potential buyers and financing partners to accelerate agricultural commercialization.

The first day focused on market opportunities, with government and private institutional buyers presenting procurement requirements, quality standards, supply volumes, and accreditation procedures.

Participants were also oriented on the Sagip Saka Act (Republic Act No. 11321), which allows qualified farmers’ and fisherfolk enterprises to directly supply government agencies without undergoing the usual public bidding process.

The DA’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD) likewise presented programs supporting product promotion and market development.

A supplier-buyer matching session provided opportunities for direct negotiations involving rice, corn, onions, vegetables, and pork, including potential trial orders and contract-growing arrangements.

The second day highlighted financial assistance, agricultural insurance, and credit facilities offered by the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), Agricultural Credit Policy Council (ACPC), and Land Bank of the Philippines.

Through a Credit Consultation Clinic, participating clusters received guidance on suitable loan packages, eligibility requirements, and financing options for working capital, production expansion, post-harvest facilities, and logistics.

The forum concluded with an Action Planning Workshop, where participating clusters identified their next steps, timelines, and documentary requirements to pursue market partnerships and financing opportunities.

The initiative forms part of DA Central Luzon’s continuing efforts to strengthen farmer and fisherfolk enterprises by connecting agricultural production with reliable markets and accessible financing.