The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, represented by Second Secretary Nishimura Tokiko, participated in the turnover ceremony for “The Project for the Provision of a Refrigerated Delivery Truck for Small-scale Farmers in Ilocos Norte.”

Agriculture remains the primary source of income for most residents of the said province. However, small-scale farmers face significant challenges, including high demand for their produce coupled with increasing logistical costs. Without their own transportation, many farmers are forced to rent vehicles or rely on intermediaries, leading to potential delays, compromised produce quality, and unpaid incomes.

To address these challenges, the Embassy of Japan provided a grant of $46,244 (approximately P2.6 million) to the Bacarra Multi-Purpose Cooperative. The grant funded the purchase of a refrigerated delivery truck, which will be used by cooperative members to ensure the timely and efficient transport of fresh produce.

In her remarks, Ms. Nishimura shared her hope that the use of the truck will significantly improve the farmers’ incomes and that they would become a role model for others to follow. 

 Japan is the top ODA donor to the Philippines, and this year marks the 70^th anniversary of ODA. The Government of Japan launched the Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP) in the Philippines in 1989 to reduce poverty and help various communities engage in grassroots activities.

At present, 564 grassroots projects have been implemented by the GGP. Japan believes that these projects will strengthen the friendship between Japan and the Philippines and contribute to sustaining strategic partnerships between the two countries.

The ceremony held in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte was graced by Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, Vice-Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, Bacarra Sangguniang Bayan Chairman on Agriculture Jonathan Sagario, Bacarra Multi-Purpose Cooperative Chairperson Primrose Manglal-lan, and some local farmers.

Note: Dollar Rate 1 USD = PHP 56.35 (as of 17 October 2023)