DTI-trained Aeta vendors open farmers’ market in Clark Freeport

Clark Development Corporation president Manuel Gaerlan talks to one of the Aeta vendors at the “Ayta Na’ market in Clark Freeport. (Photo from the Clark Development Corporation)

MABALACAT CITY, Pampanga—Makeshift stalls were set up Wednesday at the commercial area of the Clark Freeport Zone on for 79 Aetas to display and sell their products after they were trained by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

In a statement, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) said the “Ayta Na” farmers’ market offers Aetas’s produce like fruits and vegetables as well as souvenir items.

It said the DTI-trained Aetas on handling and pricing of their products and in dealing with consumers.

The CDC said fruits, vegetables, seafood, delicacies, and desserts from some towns of Pampanga and Tarlac and plants from Baguio City are also available in the market.

CDC president and chief executive officer Manuel Gaerlan said the market would help boost tourism in the freeport.

He said the state-owned firm would not charge the Aetas anything for using a portion of the commercial area for their market.

The CDC said the “Ayta Na” market is open daily, but its wet market section is open only from Friday to Sunday. INQ

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