In a move to boost food security and strengthen the economic resilience of farming and market vendor communities, the City Government of Isabela conducted a farmer’s orientation for the HIRAYA Agri Program Isabela (HAP Isabela) on July 29 at Isabela City Civic and Cultural Center. Spearheaded by the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) under the leadership of PESO Manager Aradelria Belleng, the initiative is supported by private partner Sulo Barakah Ventures with a P2 million project fund.
HAP Isabela—short for Islamic Contract Farming and Microfinance Agri Program for Food Security and Community Economic Development—will benefit at least 132 farmers and vegetable vendors across five barangays: Baluno, Sumagdang, Masola, Kapayawan, and Lukbuton.
The program introduces an inclusive and culturally responsive approach to agricultural development by integrating Islamic contract farming principles and interest-free microfinance. It aims to formalize support systems for local food producers and vendors by equipping them with training on sustainable farming practices, personal financial management, and small business governance. Participants will also receive capital assistance, farm inputs, and access to pre- and post-harvest equipment to enhance productivity and profitability.
HAP Isabela will facilitate the implementation of Islamic contract farming for key crops such as eggplant, squash, okra, string beans, and pechay. The program also provides technical assistance to improve storage, handling, and the overall resilience of harvests. It directly addresses challenges identified by the City Agriculture Office, including the high cost of farm inputs and tools, limited training on sustainable and financial practices, and the lack of proper storage facilities.
Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman expressed full support for the initiative, describing it as more than just a livelihood program, but a means to restore dignity to food growers and vendors by recognizing them as key players in the local food economy. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
