5,000 Negros agripreneurs to train on smart farming
Christian relief organization World Vision and philanthropic agency Citi Foundation partner in helping improve living conditions for local farmers
Daily TribuneChristian relief organization World Vision and philanthropic agency Citi Foundation partner in helping improve living conditions for local farmers
There's a long list of challenges that modern-day farmers face. Severe weather due to climate change can destroy crops.
"Their children are not interested in getting into farming because of the very small income, so we are in danger of losing the next generations of farmers," added World Vision Resource Development Director, Jun Godornes. "These are the men and women who put food on our tables, and they are not given value by society."
In the face of such challenges, WV is embarking on agripreneur programs and smart farming technology to make them more resilient.
Supported by a $500,000 grant from Citi Foundation's Global Innovation Challenge fund, WV is covering some 5,000 farmers of Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental under its Project AID, which aims to help improve their lives by generating growth, diversifying income, and providing widespread entrepreneurial opportunities and environmental recovery so that they can contribute to their communities and experience better living conditions.
"The reason behind the creation of Project AID is to ensure the well-being of our children. This is an opportunity to collaborate with stakeholders for the food security of our families and communities," said WV National Director Rommel Fuerte.
The farmer beneficiaries will be given sustainable training and supervision in farm management while working with a given agrifood value chain, particularly in rural and disadvantaged areas.
"We look forward to seeing more of initiatives to help Filipino farmers improve their livelihood. Through knowledge and skills sharing, these farmers will be able to grow better sustainable businesses and make a positive impact in their communities," said Citi Philippines CEO Paul Favila.
"Whether it be food insecurity, homelessness or others, the private sector can help address some of society's most pressing challenges," he added.
Municipal Office of Agriculture chairwoman Sarah Villaflor expressed her gratitude for the project on behalf of the farmers in the community.
"We can see how serious World Vision is in supporting our farmers, and we can also see that our farmers are working hard to organize themselves and are seeing the importance of making this program sustainable. Project AID will be a big benefit to the families and communities participating in the program," she said.
Godornes said WV is honored to be given the opportunity to help bring resources where they are most needed.
"Filipino farmers comprise a major sector in our country and have long been considered the backbone of our economy. However, they are always the most disadvantaged," he said.
Project AID was recently launched at the municipal auditorium of Moises Padilla by WV and local government officials as well as farmers' associations.