The Ilocos Norte Agricultural Trading Center located in Barangay 35-S Billoca, within the 10-hectare economic zone of the City of Batac, was officially inaugurated on March 12.
The facility is a priority project of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte under then Governor and now Vice Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc. It aims to improve market access and open wider opportunities for local farmers, producers, and traders across the province.
Leading the inauguration were Department of Agriculture Regional Technical Director for Operations Dr. Gilbert Rabara, Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, Vice Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, Batac City Mayor Markee Chua, and Vice Mayor Albert Chua.
Also present were Batac Sangguniang Panlungsod Members, local chief executives from neighboring municipalities, including Mayor Virgilio Calajate of Badoc, Mayor Mary Chrislyn Abadilla of Banna, Mayor Edmar Vincent Bonoan of San Nicolas, Mayor Edward Quilala of Currimao, Mayor Ralph Medrano of Sarrat, and Mayor Shiela Galano of Paoay.
The trading center marks another important step in strengthening Ilocos Norte’s agricultural sector and improving livelihood opportunities for farmers and traders across the province.
