The government-owned and controlled Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) is finalizing plans for three new mega food hubs worth a combined P3 billion to be established in Bukidnon, Quezon province and either Cebu or Iloilo in the Visayas.
The expansion, which will build on the ongoing P3.6-billion Bagsakan ng Bayan Mega Food Hub (BBM Food Hub) in Clark, Pampanga, aims to modernize the Philippines’ food distribution system, strengthen farm-to-market linkages and ensure food remains affordable.
FTI president Joseph Rudolph Lo said the agency is expanding the mega food hub network to include two in Luzon, one in Visayas and one in Mindanao. “With the blessing and guidance of our Secretary, we’re expanding the mega food hub network,” he said.
The Manolo Fortich project in Bukidnon will serve as the central trading and processing hub for Mindanao.
FTI allocated P500 million for the first year of construction and another P500 million for the second, bringing the total investment for the site to P1 billion.
The Quezon and Visayas hubs will each require at least the same level of funding, amounting to P1 billion each.
The upcoming hubs will feature facilities patterned after Thailand’s Simummuang Market, with dedicated truck markets where farmers can bring produce directly for trading buy supplies and distribute goods to nearby areas.
Lo said these hubs “will strengthen farm-to-market linkages and make it easier for farmers to sell directly while consumers gain access to fresh and affordable food.”
In support of the mega hubs, FTI is also completing several regional food terminals near major agricultural areas.
These will be operated in partnership with local governments and cooperatives to consolidate produce and include post-harvest and food processing facilities. Lo said the regional terminals may also integrate the Kadiwa network to allow farmers to sell directly to consumers.
FTI is also expanding its cold chain network with a 5,000-pallet mega chiller being built in Taguig City, alongside similar facilities in Cabanatuan and Camarines Sur. Each site will be complemented by nearby “mega Kadiwa” centers.
All projects are being funded through a mix of Department of Agriculture (DA) allocations and FTI corporate resources, with total funds amounting to around P10 billion, including carryover for next year.
“These developments will modernize our food distribution system, from farm to market, helping farmers earn more and ensuring food remains affordable for every Filipino,” said Lo.
