In celebration of Kabayan’s 124th Founding Anniversary, Dr. Aida Pagtan, RAFIS Chief, recognized local farmer-entrepreneurs during the graduation ceremony of the Farmer Business School (FBS) on November 25 at the Kabayan Municipal Grounds.
The FBS, attended by 52 farmer entrepreneurs, is in Partnership with the Department of Agriculture- Cordillera, the Department of Trade Industry – Benguet, Department of Science and Technology, Negosyo Center Kabayan and the Negosyo Center Buguias, concluded after six (6) sessions of lectures on farm business and market-oriented innovations.
Dr. Pagtan congratulated all the graduates and shared that Kabayan, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, has long been renowned for its century-old coffee trees and mummies. The fertile lands of this region have been home to skilled farmers who cultivate some of the finest fruits and vegetables. But it’s not just the past that Kabayan celebrates but also the future of its agriculture and the empowerment of its farmers.
She further explained that the Farmer Business School (FBS) is an initiative designed to empower local farmers with the skills and knowledge needed to grow and market their products effectively. She elaborated that the lessons learned at FBS are crucial, as they teach farmers how to shape and develop their products in ways that resonate with customers. The knowledge gained allows farmers to not only grow high-quality produce but also understand the needs and preferences of the market.
“From the beginning, we’ve always been a region that produces high-quality products. Our rich soil, combined with our skilled and industrious farmers, allows us to produce some of the best fruits and vegetables in the country. But now, through the Farmer Business School, farmers also learn how to showcase these products effectively, intertwined with our culture and heritage.”, Dr. Pagtan said.
Fostering economic growth is a core principle of the Farmer Business School. Through its programs, farmers are not only taught how to produce high-quality crops but also how to market them effectively, ensuring that Kabayan’s agricultural products find their place in a competitive marketplace. By blending tradition with modern business practices, Kabayan is ensuring that its rich agricultural history continues to thrive in the future, By Alyssa Dawn L. Alalag
