BATAC, ILOCOS NORTE — John Lei Ganiron, a 34-year-old in Batac, Ilocos Norte, has transitioned from a career in electrical and communications engineering to become a prominent farmer-trainer specializing in high-value crop production. This shift has not only changed his own life but also positively impacted the lives of many local farmers through his Romaine Organic Agriculture Academy, established in 2016.
According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke to the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday, his extensive training in government and private programs has been pivotal in his development. He emphasized the importance of sharing his accumulated knowledge and skills through extension services, aiming to empower more farmers. "The agriculture sector is the backbone of the economy. It is a way of life other than being a job or business," Ganiron noted, reflecting on his insights from various training programs, including the SM Foundation's Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP).
Ganiron, in collaboration with SM Foundation and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), is planning a new 14-week course covering modern farming methods, marketing, and business principles. This initiative aims to address zero hunger and poverty alleviation, aligning with the Marcos administration's goals. The program, which will be announced in August following a benchmarking activity with a partner-farm school in Pampanga, has also received PHP2 million in support from the office of Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Sandro Marcos.
Rogerio Bismonte, DSWD-Ilocos Region partnership officer, outlined that the KSK-SAP is a convergence initiative designed to establish community gardens and support local farmers in developing green agriculture practices. These community gardens will serve as both food sources and additional income avenues. The program also intends to help farmers establish cooperatives, linking them with institutional government markets necessary for government feeding, Kadiwa, and food stamp programs.
During the recent launch of the KSK program in Batac, four farmers associations, encompassing 100 active members from the cooperatives of Barangays Bacsil North, Bacsil South, Lataag, and Camanggaan, were enlisted. These groups will engage in semi-organic vegetable farming, chicken and egg production, and hog raising. Ferdinand Claro, president of the Lataag Farmers Association, expressed enthusiasm about the training, highlighting the significant market opportunities it presents.
Laoag City Mayor Michael Keon also voiced his support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to enhance local agricultural practices and improve food security. "This initiative marks a significant step towards empowering our farmers with the skills and knowledge needed for sustainable agriculture and food security," Keon stated, expressing optimism about the program's impact on expanding farmers' market reach.