Sarangani farmers ready to become entrepreneurs

Alabel, Sarangani Province – Members of the SACI Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (SARBCO) are now fully prepared to embark on their journeys as agricultural entrepreneurs after they completed their training under the Farm Business School (FBS) program of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

The FBS, consisting of 25 intensive sessions, is a program focused on sharpening farmers’ entrepreneurial skills, empowering them to cultivate their lands more productively while integrating business strategies into their farming practices.

With the comprehensive FBS program, the graduates were able to enhance their agricultural knowledge and entrepreneurial skills through the collaboration between the DAR in Sarangani and the local government of Alabel.

SARBCO, located in Purok Progressive, Maribulan, is a DAR-assisted organization involved in banana production.

SARBCO Chairman Joel Yaris said the FBS program’s planning and record-keeping would be a big help in their business operation.

“Through the 25 session trainings, we learned a lot of new things in improving our business and also in strengthening our cooperative,” he said.

Senior Agrarian Reform Program Officer Agnes Torino extended her appreciation to the graduates, acknowledging them as adult learners who have shown great commitment to personal and professional growth.

“I believe that with your education you will unlock new opportunities, not only for yourselves, and the cooperative but also for the wider community,” she said.

She also encouraged the cooperative to inspire other agrarian reform beneficiaries to expand their membership and with their new entrepreneurial mindset, they are set to transform their farms into thriving agribusinesses, contributing to the sustainable development in Alabel.

During the ceremony, 15 graduates were honored with special awards in categories such as Pangarap na Sakahan, Sakahan sa Ngayon, Best in Business Plan, Best Vision and Mission, and Perfect Attendance, recognizing their outstanding achievements and dedication throughout the course.