Sharon Acera Honor, a 44-year-old farmer from Capatungan, Trento, Agusan del Sur, has emerged as a shining example of agricultural innovation and community empowerment. Her journey from a humble rice farmer to an entrepreneur is a testament to her dedication, passion for learning, and commitment to uplifting her fellow farmers.

Sharon's story is rooted in her upbringing, where she was exposed to farming from a young age. However, it was in 2019, during her tenure at Del Monte International in Davao del Norte, that she truly immersed herself in the world of rice farming and agricultural technologies. Here, she was introduced to the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), a program designed to increase the productivity and competitiveness of local rice farmers. With newfound knowledge and inspiration, Sharon returned to her roots in Agusan del Sur, determined to implement innovative practices on her one-hectare farm, Seglo Integrated Farm.

The Seglo Integrated Farm

Drawing upon her academic background with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), Sharon transformed Seglo Integrated Farm into a demonstration site. Through her pursuit of knowledge and partnership with government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Sharon successfully obtained certifications as a Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) and a TESDA-accredited Farm School. These accolades not only recognize her expertise but also position Seglo Integrated Farm as a center for agricultural learning in her province.

From Challenges to Solutions

Sharon's commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in the crops cultivated on her farm. From rice and vegetables to hydroponic lettuce and soon-to-be-revived oyster mushrooms, Sharon embraces a holistic approach to farming that maximizes productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Her decision to expand into poultry farming and explore ventures such as silage-making and alternative feeds underscores her forward-thinking mindset and dedication to agricultural diversification.

However, Sharon's journey has not been without its challenges. When her rice crops fell victim to stemborer infestations, Sharon sought solutions from DA. Through their guidance, she discovered the efficacy of biocontrol measures such as Trichoderma and Metarhizium which mitigated the pest problem.

Moreover, Sharon's embrace of mechanization has revolutionized her farming operations. By leveraging farm machinery and equipment, Sharon has significantly reduced labor costs and increased efficiency.

Cultivating Futures: Sharon Acera's Vision for Sustainable Farming

As Sharon looks towards the future, her vision for Seglo Integrated Farm extends far beyond its physical boundaries. She envisions a thriving community of empowered farmers who, inspired by her example, embrace innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. Through her role as a TESDA trainer and assessor, Sharon continues to impart her knowledge and expertise to aspiring farmers.

Commitment to Community

For Sharon Acera Honor, farming is not merely a livelihood but a calling—a calling to serve her community, empower her fellow farmers, and shape the future of Philippine agriculture. In her commitment to excellence and innovation, Sharon exemplifies the essence of success—a success measured not only in bountiful harvests but in the positive impact she leaves on the lives of others.