The Dept. of Agriculture has considered the request of Mayor Benjamin Magalong for the construction of the city’s first agricultural tramline in Happy Hollow barangay to speed up the transport of farm inputs and produce of local farmers in the area.
DA Assistant Secretary for Logistics Daniel Alfonso Atayde and DA Cordillera Regional Executive Director Jennilyn Dawayan came for a site visit last April 23, 2025 to assess the feasibility of the project.
The DA executives also met with stakeholders to better understand the community’s needs.
They were joined by City Veterinary and Agricultural Office (CVAO) Asst. Head Dr. Gladys Bantog, barangay officials led by punong barangay Soriano Palunan and local farmers.
They also paid a call to Mayor Magalong who thanked the DA officials for their prompt response on the request made on behalf of the farmers in Happy Hollow barangay which is considered a home to indigenous people.
“We are happy that the DA immediately took cognizance of our farmers’ request. The facility will be of great help to our farmers and will boost our city’s thrust to enhance the urban farming industry and improve food production,” the mayor said.
City Veterinarian Dr. Silardo Bested said the proposed tram line will cover a half kilometer distance and will benefit 200 farmers in the barangay.
“This much-needed agricultural tramline aims to address logistical challenges faced by farmers in the area, ensuring more efficient transport of agricultural products,” he said.
CVAO Supervising Agriculturist Marcelina Tabelin said the DA executives’ post-site visit meeting with the mayor also proved insightful.
“Not only did it strengthen the collaboration between the DA and the local government but also paved the way for discussions on additional projects aimed at enhancing agricultural logistics in the City, benefitting our farmers,” she said.
“The City Government of Baguio remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting our hardworking farmers and advancing initiatives that improve agricultural productivity and sustainability,” Tabelin added. – Baguio City Public Information Office
