Sogod, Southern Leyte- In the verdant landscapes of Buac Gamay, this town, lies the humble yet remarkable Bendicar Farm Agri Ecotourism. Owned and managed by Mr. Bendicar D. Gerona, this agricultural haven spans across 5 hectares of fertile land, where nature's bounty thrives under his careful stewardship.

With a total land area of 5 hectares, 2 hectares are dedicated to the cultivation of coconut trees, standing tall as the farm's flagship crop. Amidst the swaying coconut palms, a tapestry of other crops paints the landscape – rice, singkamas, camote, and a diverse array of intercrops including root crops, solanaceous plants, beans, and leafy vegetables.

But what truly sets Bendicar Farm apart is its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Mr. Gerona eagerly shares his expertise in coconut processing, transforming the farm's bounty into value-added products such as Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO), Buko Juice, and Calamay. Embracing organic farming practices, the farm serves as a beacon of environmental stewardship, employing techniques like light trapping and harnessing beneficial microorganisms to nurture the soil and crops.

Despite facing the devastating impact of Typhoon Rai in December 2021, Bendicar Farm remained steadfast. The storm left a trail of destruction, causing significant damage to the coconut trees and crops. However, Mr. Gerona's resilience and determination prevailed as he embarked on the arduous task of rebuilding his farm.

The accolades and awards bestowed upon Bendicar Farm stand as testament to Mr. Gerona's dedication and excellence in agriculture. From being recognized as the Most Outstanding Crop Farmer by the Philippine Coconut Authority to receiving the prestigious Ugmad Award for Outstanding Farmer Entrepreneur, his contributions to the agricultural sector have garnered widespread acclaim.

Moreover, Bendicar Farm has been accredited and recognized as a Learning Site for Agriculture, School for Practical Agriculture, and Farm Tourism Site by the Agriculture Training Institute Region VIII. In 2023, the farm achieved the esteemed certification of being a Certified Organic Farm by both NICERT and OCCP, further solidifying its commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices.

Amidst his overwhelming achievements, Mr. Bendicar D. Gerona remains rooted in his passion for farming and dedication to his community. Bendicar Farm Agri Ecotourism stands as a shining example of how innovation, sustainability, and a deep connection to the land can pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future in agriculture.