On 21 March 2019, SMC hosted a research forum on “Young Filipinos in Agriculture: Challenges and Prospects,” to share key findings from the study “Towards Sustainable Agriculture as an Alternative to International Labor Migration: The Role of Young Filipinos.” It is part of initiatives under the Future of Work Project coordinated by the International Catholic Migration Commission.

The retreat of young Filipinos from agriculture has been documented by various studies. In this research, we approached the issue by focusing on the youth in agriculture. The study found various programs aimed at attracting or retaining young people in agriculture, but as importantly, it discovered young people introducing innovations in the sector. The forum featured the journey of young farmers, Rudy Concepcion II and Ernesto Perlas, Jr; the various programs of the outstanding Taluksangay 4-H Club as shared by Gamar Jailani; Ruel Amparo, who developed Cropital, which links farmers with investors; and Cherrys Abrigo, founder of Sierreza-Los Baños Community Supported Agriculture and Sierreza Zero-Waste Store and Artisan Café. Jim Leandro Cano of the Young Professionals for Agricultural Development (YPARD)-Philippines moderated the session. Among others, YAPRD -Philippines is paving the way for youth involvement in policy dialogues. Their stories inspire hope and optimism in Philippine agriculture and the multifaceted ways young Filipinos can invigorate the sector. In his closing message, Undersecretary Segfredo Serrano, Policy and Planning, Department of Agriculture, said it is important to inculcate the appreciation for agriculture at a young age. A former 4-H-er himself, he shared many learnings from his 4-H experience.

The event brought together participants from the migration, agriculture, education and development sectors. SMC thanks the Agricultural Training Institute for its support to the project.