SM Foundation holds sustainability forum for farmers

SM Foundation gathered the farmer beneficiaries of the 212th batch of its Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (SMFI-KSK) project for a sustainability forum last October 1, 2019 at Sitio Barusbos, Brgy. Balcon Maravilla, Jordan, Guimaras.

The forum was conducted by representatives from SM City Iloilo headed by Asst. Mall Manager Jasmine Maquiling, the SM Markets team led by Ms. Lyn Delicana, and HR department headed by Ms. Irene Caumban. They were joined by the staff of Department of Social Welfare and Development 6, representing Dir. Evelyn Macapobre.

This is part of the project's weekly sessions with the farmers wherein they are trained on the proper way of planting using modern farming methods and technology. 

The group, welcomed by Jordan Municipal Agricultural Officer Mildred Gencianeo, also shared the 14 Life Principles of Henry Sy, Sr. to serve as inspiration to the farmers and guide them in their daily lives.



Sessions also include values formation, capability building and social entrepreneurship. Finally, farmers are provided opportunities to create market linkages through the SM Food Group's suppliers. The KSK Program is in partnership with Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Department of Agriculture.

One of SM Supermarkets’ suppliers, Ed Jonathan Cañuto of Ephratah Farms also joined the team and discussed how the farmers can partner with him in bringing their produce to a bigger market like the various branches of SM Markets.

A Harvest Festival in Jordan will be held on October 24, 2019 to be followed by the graduation of the farmers in the Northpoint Event Center of SM City Iloilo, the next day.

SM Foundation recognizes livelihood development as a key component in improving lives in communities. Since 2007, SM Foundation's Farmers' Training Program (Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan) has been helping marginalized farmers become self-sufficient by equipping them with updated knowledge in doable agricultural technology.

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