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| In the photo is the Umajam River and the famous delicacy in Agusan del Sur locally called "daing" |
We are sharing this proposal to give an idea to the local government units, the national government, and everyone interested in the business, agriculture, and environment sectors who might see this post.
We hope that this might inspire them to conduct, support, or participate in this kind of activity for economic growth.
The Need for A Local Produce Expo
Reports show that Philippine agriculture has evolved and improved with the application of new technologies. According to Statista, the agriculture sector generated a gross value added (GVA) of about 1.76 trillion Philippine pesos in 2021, equivalent to a 9.6 percent share of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
However, the Philippine Institute of Development Studies (PIDS) policy notes dated December 2021 titled "Philippine agriculture: Current state, challenges, and ways forward" by Roehlano M. Briones state, "Agriculture faces several threats to its long-term sustainability. Fish stocks and marine ecosystems have been disrupted by overfishing and human activity, resulting in the declining capture fishery output. Meanwhile, the expansion of agricultural lands has contributed to the declining forest cover and biodiversity. Agriculture also faces worsening climate extremes and a declining availability of water owing to increased domestic and industrial use (Sajise et al. 2018; Wilson and Lasco 2018). "
Environmental protection involves the practice of sustainable agriculture, which involves the following actions:
- Support local farmers who use sustainable farming practices; and
- Choose organic and locally produced food to reduce the environmental impact of food transportation.
The "Local Produce Expo: Transforming Local Agriculture Products" provides a platform for farmers, producers, and consumers to connect, exchange knowledge, and foster local economic growth.
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| Aerial view of the lush farmlands of Loreto captured by Shine Loreto Bibo Loreto |
Key Activities
Exhibitor Showcase
- Invite local farmers, producers, and agricultural businesses to showcase their products.
Cooking Demonstrations and Tastings
- Arrange cooking demonstrations by local chefs/cooks using locally produced raw materials.
- Offer tasting of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Highlight flavors, freshness, and nutritional benefits of local agricultural products.
Sustainable Practices and Technologies
- Raise awareness about the environmental benefits of supporting local agriculture.
Marketing and Publicity
- Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy to promote the event through various channels including social media.
Evaluation and Feedback
- Collect feedback from exhibitors, attendees, and stakeholders to evaluate the event’s success and identify areas of improvement.
- Use feedback to enhance future editions of the Local Produce Expo.
By organizing the Local Produce Expo, we can create awareness about the value of supporting local agriculture, promote sustainable farming practices, and strengthen the local food economy. Through collaboration and knowledge exchange, we can transform the local agriculture sector and enhance the availability of fresh, nutritious, and environmentally friendly products.
OBJECTIVES
The Local Produce Expo aims to showcase and promote local agricultural products, highlighting their quality, sustainability, and economic benefits. Other objectives are the following:
- To create awareness about the value of supporting local agriculture;
- To promote sustainable farming practices;
- To support local businesses;
- To strengthen the local food economy; and
- To add reasons for tourists to visit Loreto.
EXPECTED PARTICIPANTS
- Local Farmers and Manufacturers;
- Business Sectors;
- Content Creators; and
- Selected Food Enthusiasts.