Jayson Aduana, a young farmer from Jaro, Leyte, has been involved in various 4-H activities in their humble municipality. However, Jayson found himself on an unexpected journey—one that took him from the familiar rhythms of rural life to the high-tech, precision-driven farms of Taiwan. His decision to join the FYFIPT Batch 3 Internship Program wasn’t just a leap towards professional development; it was a bold step into a world of modern agriculture, where technology and tradition merged in ways he had never imagined. In a span of 11 months, Jayson went from a curious young farmer to a passionate advocate of sustainable agriculture, armed with new knowledge, skills, and a fresh perspective on farming’s future.
For Jayson, the motivation to pursue this internship was rooted in his desire for personal and professional growth. “Interning in Taiwan challenged me to adapt to a new culture, work in diverse settings, and develop essential skills," he recalls. It wasn’t just about learning new techniques—it was about growing and contributing more meaningfully to agriculture back home.
Embracing Innovation and Tradition
Jayson spent his internship at the Ming Chun Organic Farm. His days on the farm were spent in the fields, engaging in hands-on activities like planting, harvesting, soil sampling, crop monitoring, and pest control. Jayson worked primarily with high-value crops such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and potatoes, depending on the season. It was an eye-opening experience for him, especially witnessing how the farm used plant-based sprays and innovative biological solutions like the Bacillus strain (ABTS-1857) for pest control. "It amazed me how these organic methods worked so efficiently," he said.
While organic farming was a familiar concept, Jayson was amazed by the advanced technologies Taiwan employed to optimize farming practices. Drones, GPS-guided machinery, and precision agriculture were integrated into everyday farm operations; thus, increasing efficiency and reducing environmental impact. What struck him the most was how well-organized the farm was. “They strategically arranged crops like corn, eggplants, and onions, with the corn acting as a natural pest barrier for the other crops. Their commitment to sustainability was remarkable,” he shared.
As a young farmer from a developing country, the technological innovations he encountered were overwhelming at first. But thanks to his prior exposure to some technologies in the Philippines, Jayson was able to quickly adapt. "We got used to the equipment, and it was amazing how much we learned over time," he said, reflecting on how this experience deepened his understanding of sustainable agriculture.
Breaking through Cultural Differences
Jayson faced many challenges along the way, particularly the language barrier. Communicating with the locals wasn’t always easy, but he found ways to overcome it through language translation apps and gestures. Adapting to the new work environment also required patience and an open mind, but observing workplace norms and seeking clarification helped him integrate smoothly.
One of his most cherished cultural experiences was celebrating the Lunar New Year in Taiwan, where he received red envelopes with good luck money, known as “hongbao.” This small but heartwarming tradition symbolized renewal, prosperity, and harmony, making Jayson feel more connected to his temporary home.
A New Perspective on Agriculture
Jayson’s time in Taiwan left an indelible mark on him, not just professionally but personally. He gained a deeper appreciation for sustainability, innovation, and the importance of community engagement in agriculture. "The Taiwanese are really focused on what they do," he noted. "If we visit our farms every day and monitor our crops closely, we can truly understand what our plants need."
The most valuable lesson Jayson took home was the importance of embracing innovation, adaptability, and continuous learning in agriculture. His host farmer's words still resonate with him: “If you monitor the plants daily, you can prevent and control pests effectively.” He also recalled his host-farmer telling them to always focus on what they do and observe. “That is where we learn the plant’s behavior, and through that, we learn from our experiences”.
Newfound Purpose
Now back in the Philippines, Jayson is determined to put his newfound knowledge to good use. He envisions a career in sustainable agriculture or agribusiness, where he can integrate livestock and crops to create a more resilient farming system. "A farm needs to be integrated to be truly sustainable," Jayson said. He believes that combining crops with livestock will not only ensure food security but also create additional income for farmers.
Jayson continues to engage with the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) by participating in training programs, workshops, and seminars that help him further develop his agricultural expertise. His journey to Taiwan may have ended, but his mission to promote sustainable agriculture in the Philippines has only just begun.
A Heart for Home
Jayson Aduana’s story is not just about his personal success but about his commitment to uplift his community. His journey from the fields of Leyte to the advanced farms of Taiwan is a testament to the transformative power of learning, hard work, and an unwavering dedication to the land.
“To my fellow youth, especially to those who want to go into farming, do not miss out on opportunities that will help you grow especially in agriculture”, Jayson narrates. He also prompts young farmers to be involved in farming related organizations such as the 4-H Clubs. “It will serve as a training ground for you as well as an information hub on the opportunities for Filipino youth such as the FYFIPT in partnership with ATI.” He reminds them that one’s willingness and drive to take risks make a good intern because of the many challenges they will be facing working abroad.
Jayson holds this experience dearly to his heart because of what he gained and what he can share to others. As Jayson cultivates his dreams, he continues to inspire the next generation of Filipino farmers to look beyond their borders and embrace the future of agriculture with open arms.
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