DOST, partner to uplift smallholder vegetable farmers
The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) joined forces with CARE Philippines to support smallholder vegetable farmers in selected municipalities in Laguna.

In a statement, DOST said their collaboration called the "aGAP (Asenso sa Good Agriculture Package) Social Enterprise Project," aims to provide comprehensive solutions for these farmers where vegetables are the prime commodity.
“Small-scale farmers in these areas have costly and or unreliable access to farming inputs, technology, and markets for their produce,” it said. Wherein the department highlighted these farmers suffer from losses caused by natural hazards such as drought, flooding, and typhoons.
Given this, both organizations shared the vision of creating “sustainable agriculture businesses.”
Also, through the project of DOST-PCAARRD's Agri-Aqua Business Hub (AABH), they will work together to connect farmers directly with buyers.
The Agri-Aqua Business Hub is DOST-PCAARRD’s new platform for technology promotion, transfer, and commercialization that offers a diverse range of services.
In this project, these are innovative, client-focused, and sustainable agricultural support services that would improve the livelihood of more than 2,000 smallholder farmers.
DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo Ebora then emphasized the importance of collaboration in developing innovative solutions for agriculture.
"PCAARRD has long believed that collaboration is essential to develop innovative projects and technologies. Given the PCAARRD and CARE Philippines' wide network of local partners, government agencies, and community-based organizations, working together on a project will allow for greater reach,” he said.
He also pointed out that the extensive network of PCAARRD and CARE Philippines will ensure the project reaches those who need it most especially those in rural communities.
CARE Philippines, is a leading international organization dedicated to fighting poverty. Its Director Reiza Dejito expressed her belief that collective action, innovation, and compassion can transform Philippine agriculture for the future.