SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) has taken another step in its mission to enhance the agriculture and entrepreneurial skills of farmers. The organization recently launched the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP) across various locations in the Philippines.
The local farmer-beneficiaries undergo a two-phased program, spearheaded by respective partner schools in the different areas.
The said program kicks off with an immersive 14-week training program, designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in agriculture. The modular training curriculum covers topics on the latest agri-technology updates, capacity building, financial literacy, product development, and market opportunities. Through these comprehensive modules, KSK-SAP aims to empower and enhance farmers’ agricultural practices and explore avenues for sustainable growth.
KSK-SAP originated from the vision of SMFI’s founder Henry “Tatang” Sy Sr. to establish a sustainable initiative that would uplift the farming skills, food security, and livelihood know-how of low-income Filipino farmers. Over the years, the program has evolved into a comprehensive training program that generates opportunities for skills development, employment, and livelihood.
Since its inception in 2007, KSK-SAP has helped thousands of marginalized farmers from rural and urban areas across the country, fueling their entrepreneurial and farming capabilities. As a result, some of the program’s graduates have turned into seasonal suppliers for the SM group and other local markets.
SM Foundation’s KSK-SAP is conducted in partnership with SM Supermalls, TESDA, DA, DSWD, DOST, DTI, DOT and partner farm schools. In Iloilo, partner farm school is CRISEL Integrated Farm.
Meanwhile, SM and the Iloilo City government have partnered on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to revitalize the Iloilo Terminal and Central Markets. This initiative aims to provide local farmers with a better marketplace for their products, helping them reach more customers and increase their income with the improved facilities.
Farmers from Iloilo City, Guimaras, Leon, Alimodian and San Miguel towns in Iloilo province, recently gathered Batch 228, 229, 230 and 231 for the Moving Forward activities at SM City Iloilo.
