80 farmers complete training

Over 80 farmers from Sudlon II, Cebu City completed the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan Farmers’ Training Program of SM Foundation Inc.

The training culminated on October 10 with a graduation ceremony at the Cube Wing Atrium of SM Seaside City. The day before, SM Foundation and the farmers celebrated a bountiful harvest and invited buyers to examine their crops. SM Foundation works with farmers to link them to markets or to SM Supermarket suppliers.

The Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan Farmer’s Training Program provides farmers with more effective ways of producing high yielding fruits and vegetables, through backyard farming — a 12step program that teaches farmers seed culture and propagation, irrigation and fertilizer application.

Led by SM Foundation Assistant Vice President for livelihood, Cristie Angeles, local government officials, local agriculturists, Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, DSWD Region 7 representatives were present to lend support at the harvest festival and farmers’ graduation.

Produce includes cabbage, tomato, eggplant, corn, watermelon, bitter gourd (ampalaya), radish, potato, and carrots. A cooking show showcasing original recipes prepared by participating farmers was one of the highlights of the harvest festival.

Farmer graduates are encouraged to continue and replicate their learnings by forming cooperative groups.