Figaro Innovation and Development Inc. (FIDI), a subsidiary of Figaro Coffee Group, signed an agreement with San Jose Workers’ Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SJWMPC) and the Batangas Organic and Natural Farming Agriculture Cooperative (BONFAC) to boost local agricultural development and ensure food security.
The signing took place on Oct. 11, 2024 in San Jose, Batangas, bringing together leaders from FIDI, SJWMPC and BONFAC.
The initiative is in line with efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and provide innovative solutions to food security challenges in the Philippines. The milestone also coincided with the celebration of World Egg Day, emphasizing the importance of local food production.
Cecille Aldueza Virtucio, SJWMPC and BONFAC chairperson, pointed out the significance of the new commissary and cold storage facility.
“Today, in celebration of World Egg Day, we once again rise to the challenge of contributing to food security. The inauguration of the SJWMPC Commissary, Meat Cutting, and Cold Storage Facility— a project realized in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and the National Meat Inspection Service—marks an important step forward,” Virtucio said.
“With a focus on chicken and eggs, we aim to provide affordable, nutritious food to workers and families, thereby addressing food inflation. Our partnership with FIDI strengthens our resolve to create progress through innovation and collaboration.”
Ace Azarraga, FCG, brand and partnership director expressed excitement about the collaboration.
“We are thrilled to take this monumental step in connecting our local farmers with Figaro Innovation and Development Inc. Supporting the coffee farmers of Batangas and other provinces, as well as our agricultural communities across the Philippines, aligns perfectly with Figaro Foundation’s mission. This partnership signifies the beginning of a larger initiative to uplift and empower farmers nationwide, ensuring sustainable growth for the local farming industry,” Azarraga said.
Jose Petroñio Español III, president of FIDI, commended the men and women driving the success of these organizations.
“Figaro will support their future endeavors to develop an integrated food processing and production value chain. Together, we will elevate Filipino farmers, bringing their produce to both local and global markets. Our shared values of promoting homegrown brands will serve as the foundation for a sustainable future,” he said.
The partnership sets the stage for the cooperative development of food processing, ensuring Filipino farmers’ products are distributed to wider domestic and international markets.
The collaboration will also focus on addressing food inflation and empowering farmers with innovative solutions.
