Davao City has announced plans to double the amount of zero-interest cooperative loans available to women farmers, increasing the limit from ₱1 million to ₱2 million. The initiative, part of a broader effort to support local agriculture, aims to ease financial barriers for women in the sector. The city government is also partnering with Grab to connect female farmers directly to digital sales platforms, enabling them to reach wider markets.
The move comes as part of Davao City’s strategy to promote sustainable farming and economic independence among women. By offering larger loans, the city hopes to encourage more women to invest in their farms and expand their operations. The collaboration with Grab is designed to streamline the sales process, allowing farmers to sell their produce online without the need for intermediaries.
Officials say the program will be rolled out in phases, starting with a pilot project in selected barangays. Training sessions for farmers on digital sales and financial management will be provided to ensure they can fully benefit from the new opportunities. The initiative reflects a growing focus on gender equality and economic empowerment in local development policies.
