Kankanaey Cooperative grows from farm supply store to egg business

A Kankanaey livelihood association in Dagup, Bagulin, La Union has expanded from an agricultural supply and rice retail business into egg production, drawing on binnadang—a Kankanaey tradition of cooperation and mutual support.

The Dagup Agri-supply and Rice Retailing Sustainable Livelihood Program Association (SLPA) was organized in 2023 through the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1’s Sustainable Livelihood Program. Members used startup capital from the program to open their business, which was intended both to generate income and to provide farmers with supplies closer to home.

The store has helped customers save on travel time and expenses by giving them a nearby place to buy agricultural necessities, according to the association.

“Starting out took sacrifice. It was difficult at first, but little by little we learned how to manage the business properly,” said SLPA president Irene E. Basiwag.

Members faced challenges getting to the store because their homes are spread across a mountainous area. They also had family responsibilities. To keep the business operating, they take turns staffing the store.

Their efforts led to a new venture: the association officially opened an egg production business in March 2026. Members source feed for their chickens through their own agricultural supply business, helping reduce costs. The poultry operation now produces more than 200 eggs a day, which the group also supplies to small local stores.

“We’re happy that our hard work is gradually paying off. At first, it felt difficult to get started, but we remained determined because we believe that when we work together, nothing is impossible,” Basiwag said.

The association continues to develop its livelihood projects while preserving the cultural values that shape its community.

Local residents also support the businesses by buying their products.