Iwahig Penal Colony's Harvest Festival Showcases Department of Agriculture's Collaborative Efforts

A flourishing venture between the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Justice bore fruit in the form of a vibrant Harvest Festival at the Iwahig Penal Colony. The event, held on December 7, 2023, marked a significant milestone in the collaborative project.

The festival highlighted an 18-hectare expanse dedicated to cultivating lowland vegetables, showcasing the fruitful endeavors in agriculture within the colony. It served as a testament to the successful partnership between the two departments, aiming to foster sustainable farming practices and empower individuals in correctional facilities through agricultural initiatives.

One of the notable aspects of this collaborative effort is the engagement of Project Zacchaeus and FarmKonekt as marketing arms for the produce. This involvement will enable connections with various buyers, including wholesalers and retailers, facilitating the distribution of the freshly cultivated harvest to broader markets.

Present at this momentous occasion were esteemed personalities such as Melissa Macasaet, the City Agriculturist, along with Vicente Binasahan from the Department of Agriculture, and Gerald Glenn Panganiban, the Director of the Bureau of Plant Industry, and the head of Bureau of Corrections in Palawan. Their presence underscored the significance of the collaboration and emphasized the support from key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

Moreover, the festival brought together various seedling suppliers, further enhancing the exchange of ideas, innovations, and resources within the agricultural community.

The event's success not only celebrated the agricultural achievements within Iwahig Penal Colony but also highlighted the collaborative efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and empower communities. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of partnerships in fostering agricultural growth and ensuring a brighter future for all involved.

Farm Konekt Recognized with Vision 2025 Sector Development Award at BIMP EAGA Convention 2023

Farm Konekt has recently achieved a significant milestone at the BIMP EAGA Convention 2023 in Brunei Darussalam. The prestigious event witnessed the acknowledgment of Farm Konekt's outstanding contributions with the Vision 2025 Sector Development Award for Agribusiness in the Brunei Indonesia Malaysia Philippines - East ASEAN Growth Area.

Expressing deep gratitude and acknowledging the divine guidance that led to this remarkable achievement, the Farm Konekt team extends their appreciation to their dedicated investors, supportive partners, valued clients, and the communities benefitting from their system.

The award serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of many, underscoring the shared commitment to driving positive change within the agriculture sector.

Among the esteemed stakeholders joining in the celebration are representatives from MinDA, the BIMP FC, DICT, DA, and various national agencies in the Philippines, along with local government units and other partners. Additionally, Farm Konekt acknowledges the unwavering support of ministries abroad that have embraced their services.

As a bridging leadership platform fostering cooperation among four countries, Farm Konekt remains steadfast in their mission to create a brighter and more prosperous future for all.

The recent accolade serves as a testament to Farm Konekt's relentless pursuit of excellence and their commitment to forging impactful partnerships for the advancement of the agricultural landscape.

#BIMP_EAGA2023 #AgriculturalExcellence #PartnershipsForChange

Juana Fresh, NCCC Supermarket, and Unilever Philippines Unite to Support Farmers

Puerto Princesa, Palawan - In an exciting collaboration focused on uplifting local farming communities, Juana Fresh has teamed up with NCCC Supermarket and the Knorr product line of Unilever Philippines.

The recent partnership emphasizes a shared commitment to empowering farmers and ensuring the availability of fresh produce for the wider community. Juana Fresh's dedication to sourcing products from local farmers has made them a crucial link between agricultural producers and consumers in the region.

Representatives from Unilever Philippines, including Account Managers Shy Calamba and Kath Suarez, have expressed their enthusiastic support for this joint initiative, underscoring their dedication to sustainable and community-driven projects. NCCC Supermarket, a key player in the local retail industry, has also pledged its full support to Juana Fresh, amplifying its efforts to promote locally sourced goods and strengthen the region's agricultural ecosystem.

Janna Mutalib, the Marketing Manager of NCCC Supermarket, and Jofer Malolos, the Admin and finance Head of Juana Fresh, engaged in constructive dialogue about the expansion of the Share-a-Meal program, which aims to address food scarcity concerns in various Filipino communities. Their discussions revolved around ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality produce and supporting farmers in the region.

Juana Fresh's central role in facilitating partnerships between local farmers and prominent retailers like NCCC Supermarket highlights the cooperative's commitment to sustainable agriculture and community well-being. With the support of Unilever Philippines, renowned for its global sustainability efforts, this collaboration is expected to bring about positive changes in the local farming landscape and contribute to the region's economic development.

The collective effort of these organizations signifies a powerful stride towards sustainable agricultural practices and inclusive community development. By working together, they aim to create a more resilient and prosperous environment for local farmers and residents alike, fostering a stronger and more sustainable food ecosystem for the future.