PUERTO PRINCESA, PALAWAN – In the graduation ceremony of the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP), DSWD Field Office MIMAROPA Regional Director Leonardo C. Reynoso, CESO III, through his representative congratulated the 100 farmer-graduates and reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to support the program through the provision of seed capital fund and capacity-building interventions through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), at SM Mall Puerto Princesa City, Palawan last November 22, 2024.

The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of the 100 farmer-beneficiaries from barangays Maoyon, Manalo, Kamuning, and Inagawan, Puerto Princesa who successfully underwent 14 weeks of intensive training conducted headed by SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Local Government Units, and Moca Family Farm RLearning Center.

DSWD FO MIMAROPA assisted in the selection and identification of the beneficiaries, helped in the establishment of demo farms, participated in the site visits to monitor progress and provide technical support, and facilitated business proposal trainings agricultural livelihoods.

During the graduation ceremony, SLP Provincial Partnership Officer Jake Bryle Navarro emphasized the importance of collaboration in creating meaningful and lasting change in the lives of farmers and their families. He further discussed that livelihood project proposals were currently in process to prepare for the awarding of seed capital grants and conduct of appropriate capacity-building interventions for scaling sustainable agriculture ventures in 2025.

TESDA, on the other hand, provided training in crop production, entrepreneurship, and agri-mechanization, equipping participants with modern techniques to boost agricultural productivity. DOST focused on imparting crucial knowledge in food safety standards, product innovation, and post-harvest management to improve the quality and marketability of their produce agri-products.

Likewise, DOLE offered guidance on workers’ rights, occupational safety, and livelihood assistance programs to maintain safe working conditions. The City Agriculture Office (CAO) also played a significant role, imparting knowledge on sustainable farming practices, establishing market linkages, and supporting the development of community-based agri-enterprises, helping participants expand their reach and grow their businesses.

Launched in 2027, the KSK-SAP of the SM Foundation, Inc. aimed to equip participants with modern farming technologies and innovative practices to become successful farmer-entrepreneurs focusing on enhancing agricultural productivity and securing food security.

Through the combined efforts, the partnership between DSWD, SMFI, and other stakeholders exemplifies the power of multi-sectoral collaboration in fostering sustainable agricultural development and building resilient communities.

 

Contributor: Jake Bryle Navarro, SLP Palawan, Provincial Partnership Officer