Department of Agriculture (DA) Assistant Secretary and Concurrent Chief-of-Staff, Hon. Rex C. Estoperez, with DA-CAR Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulatory, Atty. Jennilyn M. Dawayan monitored the operations of the Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center (BAPTC) on March 24, 2023. BSU Vice-President for Business Affairs and BAPTC Chief-Operating Officer Dr. Norma P. Banania accompanied ASec. Estoperez as he visited the facilities, resources, and operations of the center. 

The monitoring results will serve as the basis for further improvement of the trading facility. During the press conference, Dr. Banania assured to improve BAPTC operations and facilities, following the issues pointed out. “We are trying to dress up BAPTC to be included in the tourism circuit of La Trinidad. Please give us a chance to prove that we are sincere in this endeavor,” she stated. She also emphasized the need to make facilities functional, fix traffic areas, and process the accreditation of farmers and traders. ASec. Estoperez seconded Dr. Banania, adding that LGU-La Trinidad and BAPTC should harmonize their actions and find ways to be efficient for improvement. "Bring more profit, and least cost," he said. He added that identifying problems in the whole trading system will make it easier to give solutions.

Dr. Banania said that BAPTC is always open for anyone who wants to visit and witness the center’s working system. She again assured everyone that BAPTC is constantly striving for improvement and employees are working hard to maintain good operations of BAPTC.// LAbance (BAComm Intern)