The Central Luzon Farmers and Agri-based MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) Summit was held at the Cultural Center in San Manuel, Tarlac, on 21 November 2025.

With the theme “Enhancing Central Luzon’s Agriculture for MSMEs’ Sustainable Growth,” the summit was organized through the collaboration of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The event sought to strengthen the connection between farmers and MSMEs to boost local value-addition, innovation and inclusive development across the agriculture sector.

DA Assistant Secretary and Sagip Saka Atty. Joycel R. Panlilio; DA Central Luzon Regional Technical Director Dr. Irene Adion; DTI Region III Director Edna D. Dizon; officials from the local government of Tarlac; and farmers and agripreneurs from Central Luzon were among those in attendance.

MSMEs from the seven provinces of Central Luzon showcased their products in an exhibit and selling area, while farmers were given the opportunity to directly negotiate supply agreements for raw materials needed by MSME producers.

ASec Panlilio emphasized the benefits of the Sagip Saka Act, noting that farmers can now sell their products directly to government agencies without public bidding, provided that they are registered with the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) and the Farmers and Fisherfolk Enterprise Development Information System (FFEDIS).

The summit also featured presentations on Smart Farming and Digital Agriculture technologies aimed at improving production quality. Sessions tackled access to financial support, risk-management mechanisms and strengthening the entrepreneurial mindset of participants.

A commitment signing capped the summit, symbolizing the shared dedication of farmers and MSMEs to continuous livelihood development and deeper partnerships across the region.