The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) announced it has signed a marketing agreement with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to allow agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) to supply agricultural products to district jails in Oriental Mindoro. The agreement was formalized by representatives from DAR and BJMP regional offices in Mimaropa, alongside the DAR Oriental Mindoro Provincial Office, as reported by BusinessWorld .
Under the deal, ARBs will deliver fresh produce directly to jail facilities, ensuring a steady market for their crops while providing inmates with nutritious food. The initiative aims to boost the income of agrarian reform communities and reduce post-harvest losses by establishing a consistent buyer. Specific agricultural products to be supplied were not detailed in the initial announcement.
The partnership aligns with the government's goal of strengthening the value chain for smallholder farmers and improving food security within correctional facilities. DAR and BJMP officials expressed optimism that the arrangement could serve as a model for similar collaborations in other provinces. Further implementation details are expected to be released as the program rolls out.