Link to original video by GMA Public Affairs

'Magtanim ay 'Di Biro,' dokumentaryo ni Kara David | I-Witness (with English subtitles)

"'Magtanim ay 'Di Biro,' dokumentaryo ni Kara David | I-Witness" Summary

Short Summary:

This documentary, "Magtanim ay 'Di Biro," explores the struggles of cabbage farmers in Benguet, Philippines, who face plummeting prices and unfair market practices. The film highlights the complex factors contributing to this issue, including oversupply, importation of vegetables, and the role of middlemen in the supply chain. The documentary sheds light on the economic hardship and despair experienced by farmers, who often lose money despite their hard work and dedication. It raises questions about the government's role in supporting farmers and ensuring fair market conditions.

Detailed Summary:

Section 1: The Farmers' Struggle

• The documentary opens with scenes of cabbage farmers in Benguet, diligently tending to their crops.
• Despite their hard work, they face a bleak reality: low prices for their produce.
• The farmers are forced to sell their cabbages for as low as PHP 2 per kilo, barely covering their expenses.
• Janet, a farmer, describes the uncertainty of the market as a gamble, where even a good harvest doesn't guarantee profit.
• The documentary highlights the emotional toll of this situation, with farmers expressing frustration and disappointment.

Section 2: The Market System

• The documentary delves into the complex market system that governs the sale of cabbages.
• It shows the journey of the cabbages from the farm to the La Trinidad Trading Post, where they are graded and sold.
• The documentary exposes the role of middlemen, known as "disposers," who act as intermediaries between farmers and buyers.
• These disposers take a commission on each kilo sold, further reducing the farmers' profits.
• The documentary also reveals the practice of "oversize" cabbages being rejected by buyers, leading to significant losses for farmers.

Section 3: The Causes of Low Prices

• The documentary explores the various factors contributing to the low cabbage prices.
• The Department of Agriculture attributes the situation to oversupply, claiming that farmers planted too much.
• However, local officials suggest that importation of vegetables from other countries is also a contributing factor.
• The documentary presents conflicting perspectives on the issue, highlighting the lack of a clear solution.

Section 4: The Farmers' Perspective

• The documentary emphasizes the human cost of the situation, focusing on the struggles of individual farmers.
• Dandy, a former teacher who turned to farming, expresses his frustration at the unfair market practices.
• The documentary shows the emotional impact of the low prices on farmers, who are forced to sell their produce at a loss.
• It highlights the desperation of farmers who are left with no choice but to throw away their unsold produce.

Section 5: The Future of Farming

• The documentary concludes with a somber reflection on the future of farming in Benguet.
• Janet expresses her hope that her children will receive an education and escape the hardships of farming.
• The documentary leaves viewers with a sense of urgency to address the challenges faced by farmers and ensure their livelihoods.
• The film concludes with a powerful image of a "cemetery" of unsold cabbages, symbolizing the loss and despair experienced by the farmers.

Notable Quotes:

• "Yung iba talagang tamang-tama sa mga ano sa magagandang presyo pero sa amin kasi p late ka ng nagtanim Syempre ang Aabutin mababa Pero hindi namin alam kasi hindi parang sugal din yun Ma'am" - Janet, describing the uncertainty of the market.
• "Magkano po ba utang ninyo siguro baka papunta ng 200 Hala 200,000 Yes Ma'am" - Janet, revealing the heavy debt burden faced by farmers.
• "Wala na kaming papuntahan ma wala naang naman na magawang naman na ka ng Magtatanong ka ng hindi hindi maganda mm pag tiisin na lang ma'am" - Janet, expressing her hopelessness about the future.
• "Magsasaka lang ang natalo sa sitwasyong ito kung sino pa ang naghirap sa taniman siya pa ang Uu luhaan" - Kara David, summarizing the plight of the farmers.