TLDC to launch agri-supermarket, jobs, and eco-tourism in Mambukal

By Dolly Yasa 

BACOLOD CITY — The Technology Livelihood and Development Center (TLDC) is set to open a new capitol-style supermarket in Mambukal, Negros Occidental, aimed at directly sourcing fresh produce from local farmers and creating community jobs linked to agri-tourism and environmental protection.

Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz announced the initiative on Monday, saying the project will prioritize buying all available harvests from nearby farms, with TLDC managing the efficient distribution of goods across the province.

“Newly hired employees will also serve as potential buyers,” Diaz said, noting that TLDC will implement a delivery system allowing vegetables—such as those used in pinakbet orders—to be sent directly to government offices and buyers, removing the need for them to leave their workplaces.

Major supermarkets in Negros Occidental will also receive produce directly sourced from local farmers, strengthening the farm-to-market linkage and reducing post-harvest losses by ensuring quicker distribution and minimizing spoilage.

The farming component of the program is focused in Barangay Minoyan, Murcia, where farmlots have already been mapped using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. The digital mapping identifies Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP)-covered areas and the crops best suited for each plot.

Farmers in the area will receive both seeds and wages, supporting their livelihoods while advancing the province’s broader food security goals.

Diaz emphasized that the project adopts a community-participatory approach, giving hiring priority to Minoyan residents. In addition to farming roles, some workers will be designated as “Lawig Patrollers,” tasked with monitoring the surrounding areas of the Kanlaon Natural Park.

Any unauthorized encroachments or intrusions into protected zones will trigger immediate legal action, he said.

Locals have also expressed interest in working as trail guides for the area’s eco-tourism offerings. “Residents of Minoyan have also expressed willingness to work as trail guides,” Diaz said.

To ensure preparedness, selected guides will receive training in First Aid, Basic Life Support, and environmental protection. The training will be conducted by the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO), with a focus on preserving waterfalls and protecting local plant and animal life.

Diaz reported that the Mambukal trail is nearing completion, with construction finished from the sixth to the first waterfall. However, landslide-prone sections between the trail’s launching point and the first falls remain a concern.

Once the trail becomes fully operational, visitors will be charged a minimum access fee as mandated by local ordinance. Proceeds will be allocated to support community guides and local livelihood efforts.

According to Diaz, the combined rollout of the supermarket, farm support program, eco-tourism trail, and environmental patrols is expected to launch soon in Mambukal.

These efforts form part of Negros Occidental’s comprehensive strategy to promote food security, create sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen community-based tourism.