About FRLD

The Foundation for Resource Linkage and Development Inc. (FRLD) is a non-stock non-profit, non-governmental organization that traces it roots to a group of men and women who has undertaken and led the successful implementation of various undertakings to address the inefficiencies and problems plaguing the agribusiness sector. This includes: Dulce I. Gozon, Antonio V. Roces, Angelito M. Sarmiento, Rosalino G. Perez, Manuel B. Iguall, Franklin M. Panahon, and Miguel R. Unson. Their work is carried out through networking and alliances with various organizations including regional chambers of commerce, industry associations, federations and cooperatives, and government line agencies. At present, it is at the frontline of development of the Philippine agribusiness sector.

To strengthen the role of the private sector in nation building, the group behind FRLD focused their attention and efforts on the plight of the marginalized farmers. With the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the group took on the problems of information dissemination in the agricultural marketing system. The result was the Market Information Dissemination (MARID) Project, which address the lack of timely, relevant, and accessible market information for rural farmers and entrepreneurs. Through MARID, findings of workshops, studies, and consultative meetings were published and broadcast to the different sub sectors in the agribusiness community.

The success of MARID paved the way for the formalization of the FRLD organization in 1991. Since then, and until the completion of the USAID funding support in 1996, the foundation’s role has evolved and expanded to a multidimensional extent. Over the years, it has gathered a wealth of data; insights, experiences, and associates that help it provide continues support to both the government and private sector in implementing development programs and projects. The company’s thrusts include market development, market linkage, market promotions, market information dissemination, and entrepreneur-ship development.

The services provided by the FRLD fall under a triumvirate of project modules, namely: MARID, Market Linkage and Development (MARTLINK), and Market Promotion. The MARID continues to provide relevant and well-package market information utilizing the broadcast and print media. It publishes monthly MARID Agribusiness Digest, which was awarded the Agricultural Magazine of the Year in tow consecutive years by the Philippine Agricultural Journalist. The MARTLINK promotes agribusiness investment in the countryside and more vertical integration within the agribusiness sector. Under this component, the FRLD conducts comprehensive market assessments using the rapid marketing appraisal technique and feasibility studies. The MARTPROM promotes competitive Philippine agri-based products in the global market through the organization of the national and international agribusiness fairs and exhibits. FRLD offers it services to government agencies, private sector, cooperatives and other organizations engaged in agricultural development activities.