MANILA – FAST Logistics Group, the country’s leading end-to-end logistics provider, is expanding its support for farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nueva Vizcaya by boosting market access and improving transport systems through a newly launched logistics initiative.

The company formalized its commitment through a Memorandum of Partnership Agreement (MOPA) signed by FAST CEO for Logistics Manuel L. Onrejas Jr., Aritao Mayor Remelina Peros-Galam, and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Director Ramil D. Garcia. The agreement establishes the first Logistics Support Kiosk in the province, located at the OTOP Store in Aritao.

The kiosk will act as a consolidation and drop-off point for MSME products and agricultural goods from Aritao and surrounding municipalities. FAST will handle the transport of these goods to larger markets such as Metro Manila, helping local producers overcome logistics challenges and reach a broader customer base.

Nueva Vizcaya, known as the “Ginger Capital of the Philippines” and “Citrus Capital of Luzon,” is a key source of fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. However, farmers have long faced transportation issues that result in reduced profitability and food wastage.

“We want farmers to succeed, and we believe logistics plays a crucial role in that,” Onrejas said. “Logistics should be an enabler, not a barrier, so we are making it easier for fresh produce to reach institutional buyers and larger markets.”

FAST is also exploring ways to support local post-harvest infrastructure, including the Aritao Cold Storage Facility and Agricultural Trading Post, to improve handling and reduce spoilage. The company expressed plans to offer logistics training and employment opportunities to local residents.

Aside from agricultural producers, the kiosk will benefit MSMEs engaged in processed food production and handicrafts. DTI records show that around 3,000 MSMEs in Nueva Vizcaya are currently being assisted by the agency.

“Our partnership with FAST Logistics opens new opportunities for MSMEs in Aritao and nearby towns to grow and reach bigger markets,” Mayor Peros-Galam said.

DTI Provincial Director Garcia added, “Strong partnerships with private sector leaders like FAST are essential to helping our entrepreneurs grow and thrive beyond the province.”

The MOPA signing was witnessed by representatives from the provincial government, Department of Agriculture, Nueva Vizcaya Chamber of Commerce and Industry, local cooperatives, MSMEs, and farmers’ groups, signaling strong community support for the initiative.