More than 200 farmers from Bukidnon and Agusan del Norte recently completed the SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) on Sustainable Agriculture program. This 14-week training aims to equip farmers with modern and sustainable farming practices, empowering them to improve their livelihoods and boost local food security.
The graduation ceremonies were held simultaneously in Talakag, Bukidnon and Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte, on September 27, 2024. Farmers were trained in crop management, soil health, organic pest control, and post-harvest handling. The program also emphasized market integration, preparing farmers to sell their produce to larger outlets, including SM Supermarkets.
In Bukidnon, the farmers are already preparing to expand their market reach, while in Agusan del Norte, nearly half of the graduates come from indigenous communities, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusivity. The farmers are also participants of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), which helps them implement the practices they’ve learned in the program.
The KSK program is a collaboration between SM Supermalls, SM Markets, DSWD, and other key organizations, ensuring that farmers receive the necessary support and resources to succeed. This initiative not only enhances sustainable farming but also strengthens the rural economy, giving farmers better access to stable markets and improving their income.
The success of these farmers is a step forward in promoting sustainable agriculture and food security in Mindanao, making a positive impact on both their lives and their communities.