SM Foundation brings farmers training program to La Union

SM Foundation welcomed farmers and Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries from La Union and its neighboring communities into its 87th Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) Farmers’ Training Program last February 5, 2015.

The KSK training program is in collaboration with partner agencies, namely: Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Agriculture, and local government units.

Through the program, SM Foundation enables farmers to become self-sufficient by equipping them with knowledge on the production of high-value crops. For 12 weeks, participants are trained in doable agricultural technology and methods through modular lectures and hands-on training. In addition, they are also taught on how to effectively market and sell their crops in a way where they can penetrate high-end markets. The season-long training will culminate with a harvest festival on May 6.

To date, SM Foundation has already trained 10,080 farmers, nationwide since it started in 2007.

Guests during the activity include Cristie Angeles, Assistant Vice President for Livelihood, SM Foundation; Arsenio Barcelona, President, Harbest Agribusiness Corporation; Eric Sibuma, Municipal Mayor of Aringay, La Union; Marlene Peralta, Assistant Regional Director for Operations, DSWD; Ramsey Pascual Mangaoang, Committee on Agriculture; Charlie Joloya, Vice Mayor, Municipality of Aringay; Manuel Ugaban, Municipal Agricultural Officer, Aringay; Ramon Docot, Selling Supervisor, SM Supermarket Baguio; and Rona Correa, Assistant Mall Manager, SM City Baguio.