13/07/2026
๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ || Department of Agriculture - Cordillera (DA-CAR) Regional Executive Director Atty. Jennilyn M. Dawayan graced the 8th Highland Vegetable Industry Week celebration, which kicked off today, July 13, 2026, at the Municipal Gymnasium in La Trinidad, Benguet.
Themed โEducating Consumers, Promoting Highland Vegetables, Empowering Agri-preneursโ, the activity centered on celebrating the farmersโ hard work and unwavering dedication while highlighting the regionโs progressive agricultural sector.
RED Dawayan highlighted the Municipality of La Trinidad's vital role as the convergence point for highland and lowland vegetables from the Cordillera and neighboring regions. The municipality is home to the Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center, the La Trinidad Vegetable Trading Post, and several private trading posts, where farmers can unload and market their produce during favorable seasons and, more importantly, during challenging times.
"The Municipality of La Trinidad serves as a stabilizing force for our farmers, receiving their produce not only during times of abundance but also during periods when the industry faces uncertainty," she said. She added that the local government unit also creates opportunities through sisterhood agreements, market linkages, and partnerships with various stakeholders to help ensure the sustainability of farmers' livelihoods.
She also outlined the agency's plans to further strengthen the municipality's agriculture sector, including the revival of the community business center and the establishment of processing centers and value-adding facilities to accommodate the province's increasing production, reduce post-harvest losses, and create new market opportunities for farmers.
In addition, RED Dawayan highlighted the Department's proposed food terminal hub in Clark, which DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. has repeatedly emphasized during his visits to the region. The facility is envisioned to serve as a major consolidation center for agricultural products from across the country.
RED Dawayan reaffirmed the Department's commitment to supporting the Municipality of La Trinidad in strengthening and sustaining its agriculture sector. "The DA will continue to walk with you every step of the way. After all, meaningful discussions are gateways to understanding and collaboration," she said.
The activity will also feature other activities, including the Manduto Kito Culinary Showcase, culinary processing demonstrations and kimchi-making workshop, competitions on wood carving, planting, and vegetable art decoration, motorcade, and the annual vegetable salad tossing and serving. The week-long celebration will run until Friday, July 17, 2026.//CEWaytan
