A total of PHP42.6 million worth of agricultural products have been sold by some 140 farmers and fisherfolk in the Ilocos Region to the local government units (LGUs) for the four provinces’ relief operations.

In a statement Tuesday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said the LGUs in La Union bought PHP3.8 million worth of agri-products from its farmers and fisherfolk while Ilocos Sur bought worth PHP9.8 million, Ilocos Norte spent PHP17.2 million, and Pangasinan PHP11.8 million.

Among the products of farmers from Agoo, Balaoan, Bauang, Bangar, Luna, Sto. Tomas, Sudipen towns and this city are rice, corn, monggo, sweet potato, squash, among others.

In Ilocos Sur, products bought from Cabugao, Caoayan, Narvacan, San Emilio, Santiago, Sinait, and Sta. Lucia towns and Vigan City were tilapia, milkfish, pork, rice, and different kinds of vegetables.

Fruits, vegetables, and fishes were bought from the farmer-suppliers in Ilocos Norte and Pangasinan, the DA said.

“This move was done in order to ensure that the farmers’ income continues amid the pandemic,” it added.

Aside from their partnership with the LGUs, the farmers are also able to sell their products directly to the consumers through the “Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita” where consumers can buy agri-products at a reasonable price. (PNA)