Manila: A total of 212 farmers in Ilocos Norte have moved up to the next challenge of agriculture entrepreneurship after they successfully completed a 14-week training on sustainable agriculture. The graduation ceremony took place on Wednesday at SM City Laoag, with some of their fresh produce showcased at the atrium.
According to Philippines News Agency, the organic farming training was transformative for the farmers, who learned about soil health, natural pest control, and composting. Yvette Javines, one of the graduates from Barangay Barit, expressed the significant knowledge gained through the program. The training provided insights into modern farming methods, marketing, and business principles aimed at improving their living conditions.
Roger Juan from Barangay Navotas highlighted the guidance received from various government agencies and SM Foundation Inc., the organization behind the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) sustainable agriculture program. He emphasized the newfound confidence and skills to effectively market their produce. The program, according to him, was a collaborative effort that enabled them to turn their aspirations into reality.
Maylene Quiling from Barangay San Marcelino in Dingras town mentioned that the training offered them the opportunity to enhance their livelihood. Besides learning modern agricultural techniques, they were awarded a national certificate in organic farming production that instilled pride and inspiration among the farmers. Quiling acknowledged the support from both public and private partners, which set a new direction for producing safe and nutritious food for the community.
Marlon Gallano, an organic farming advocate and trainer in the KSK program, commended the new generation of farmers for their commitment to sustainable practices. He noted their dedication to reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, positioning themselves as future custodians of the land.
To further support the eight farmers’ associations from Dingras and Laoag City who completed the training, the Department of Social Welfare and Development has allocated a grant of PHP500,000. This financial support will be complemented by contributions from Ilocos Norte Reps. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos and Angelo Marcos Barba, along with various government agencies including the Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and others.
The livelihood proposals put forth by the farmers include integrated farming with tilapia and catfish production, vegetable and “lakatan” production, and free-ranged chicken and egg production.
