Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), led by Region 2 Provincial Director Atty. Michael B. Paggabao, facilitated a new market linkage between S&R Membership Shopping and the province’s institutional suppliers during a two-day visit on November 6 and 7.

The visit began with a meeting attended by DTI E-Commerce Undersecretary Mary Jean Pacheco and members of the Nueva Vizcaya Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Meanwhile, VP of Fresh Produce Kaye Go discussed S&R’s commitment to building a long-term partnership with NVAT and local farmers, starting with an initial roll-out in five of its stores, and gradually scaling up the program for broader impact. She also emphasized that savings from the initiative will be passed on to S&R members.

On the second day, S&R representatives toured NVAT and had a firsthand look at the terminal's fast-paced operations and the workers behind Nueva Vizcaya’s thriving agricultural trade. The team then traveled to Kayapa, where they observed the hands-on practices that contribute to the exceptional freshness and quality of Nueva Vizcaya’s produce.

The DTI Nueva Vizcaya played a key role in facilitating the partnership, with a shared vision of creating lasting benefits for local farmers and consumers. The parties have agreed to hold follow-up meetings to finalize logistics, terms, and a timeline for the first delivery in Q1 2025. This collaboration highlights the DTI Nueva Vizcaya’s commitment to strengthening market linkages, supporting farmers, and promoting the province’s agricultural resources to wider markets.