Farmers of Jordan, Guimaras who are beneficiaries of Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (SMFI-KSK) project, held a harvest festival at Sitio Barusbos Brgy. Balcon Maravilla last October 24, 2019.
The farmers then went to SM City Iloilo the next day, for their graduation as the 211th batch of said farmers training program after their 12 weekly sessions, wherein SMFI-KSK scholars are trained on the proper way of planting through lessons in modern farming methods and technologies.
The weekly sessions also included values formation, capability building and social entrepreneurship. Finally, farmers are provided opportunities to create market linkages through the SM Markets suppliers. The KSK Program is in partnership with Harbest Agribusiness Corporation, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Department of Agriculture.
SM Foundation recognizes livelihood development as a key component in improving lives in communities. Since 2007, SM Foundation’s Farmers’ Training Program (Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan) has been helping marginalized farmers become self-sufficient by equipping them with updated knowledge in doable agricultural technology.
Also recently, a sustainability forum was held to make sure that the project will continue after their training. Part of the program was also the crafting of a sustainability plan so there will be specific actions that will be done in coordination with the Local government unit of Jordan and the project partners.
Gracing the program were SM Foundation Asst. Vice President Cristie Angeles, Jordan, Guimaras Mayor Ruben Corpuz, Ms. Norma Ruth Raymundo of DSWD central office and SM City Iloilo Asst. Mall Manger Jasmine Maquiling.
