In a bid to positon Tupi as the legitimate fruit basket not only of South Cotabato but of Region XII as well, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has envisioned to develop a "South Cotabato Fruit Park" along national highway in Kablon, this municipality.

In a dialogue with "fruit vendors" held at Tupi Town hall, Friday, February 5, 2010, DTI South Cotabato Director Flora Gabunales said that "Fruit stands are now proliferating along the national highway in Tupi and their number is increasing" adding "these needs to be developed to improve their image to attract more tourists and buyers."

"Fruit Park" shall provide not only fresh fruits but processed fruits as well said Gabunales. It shall also have a clean comfort rooms, parking space, eating area with tables and chairs, and light and water facilities, she added.

The fruit vendors unanimoulsy endorsed DTI's plan of putting up a fruit park. Meanwhile, DTI-South Cotabato is set to discuss their plan with Tupi officials as the latter would be the one to manage the same.

One of the main issues raised by the vendors is land ownership since most of them are occupying the right of way along the national highway. On many occassions they were notified by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to vacate the area.

DTI plans to elevate their concerns to proper authorties and as to the possibility of partnership with landowners in the implementation of the plan. The forum was made possible thru the facilitation of the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) headed by Mr. Danilo de Guzman.