Building on earlier findings suggesting the vast potentials of agriculture to promote rural development, this research explored how agriculture may be an option to international labor migration for young Filipinos. In keeping with global trends, young Filipinos are also retreating from agriculture. Part 1 of the study reviewed the policies and programs aimed at attracting and/or retaining young Filipinos in agriculture; many programs focused on training. Part 2 of the study highlighted young Filipinos involved in agriculture as innovators, introducing new ideas and new practices through initiatives such as organic farming, linking farmers with markets through Community Shared Agriculture, linking farmers with a community of investors, and including the youth voice in policy-making. Agriculture is more than farming: a broader vision of agriculture suggests many spaces for young Filipinos to fill in and to contribute in various roles and capacities.

This research was part of “The Future of Work, Labour After Laudato Si” global project, which was coordinated and supported by the International Catholic Migration Commission. It was condcuted between July 2018 and April 2019.