DILIMAN, Quezon City - Farmers' produce from different parts of the country were on showcase as the "ATIng Merkado sa SiyuDAd" opened during the 31st anniversary celebration of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI).

The two-day activity aims to provide a venue for farmers and fisherfolk to sell their products directly to the public. In turn, consumers will be able to buy fresh, healthy, and affordable food and food products in the most convenient and accessible way.

A total of 25 merchants took part in the event which include ATI's training centers, Learning Sites (LS), Extension Service Providers (ESPs), and other partner merchants. Their products range from raw produce to processed and packaged ones.

One of the merchants is Vizcaya Fresh, an LS in Nueva Vizcaya that is being assisted by ATI Regional Training Center II. Marketing officer Ronnel Acio shared that they have been participating in trade fairs and market events since the organization started in 2013.

"We offer fresh highland vegetables harvested by small scale farmers who serve as our partners. This kind of event will help us sell our produce and promote it to more buyers in various locations," Acio added.

Senator Cynthia Villar and Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary for Operations Ariel Cayanan graced the launching of the event and led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, together with ATI Officer-in-Charge Director Luz Taposok and Deputy Director Alfredo Aton.

Sales for the first day amounts to around Php103,000. The total sales is expected to rise as more shoppers came for the second day.

Inspired by the “TienDA Farmers and Fisherfolk Outlet” of the DA, ATIng Merkado sa SiyuDAd was held on January 29 and 30, 2018 at the ATI grounds in this city.