The National Tobacco Administration (NTA) has launched PHP16.6 million worth of “Gulayan at Manukan sa (Vegetable and Poultry in) Barangay” (GMB) project, benefitting 2,224 farmers across the country.

The GMB project, one of the NTA’s livelihood assistance programs, is in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to boost local agri-fishery productivity and bring down the cost of food.

“The initiative aims to provide additional livelihood and augment the income of the tobacco farmers,” NTA Administrator and CEO Belinda Sanchez said in a statement Tuesday.

The fund was allocated to eight areas nationwide, with the NTA in charge of the input procurement and product marketing.

At least 278 tobacco farmer-beneficiaries will benefit from each area.

Under the Gulayan, free “pinakbet” vegetable seeds, along with fertilizers and crop protection agents will be given to farmer-beneficiaries.

Meanwhile, broiler chicken will be given to farmer cooperators under the Manukan.

The NTA said the GBM program intends to help tobacco farmers secure additional income sources and ensure access to food. (PNA)