From the picturesque town of Brgy. Pomponan, Baybay City, Leyte, 27-year-old Val Vincent Martinez took on a challenge that would significantly shape his future. As a participant in the Filipino Young Farmers Internship Program in Taiwan, Val spent 11 months immersing himself in the world of innovative agricultural practices. What he gained from this experience was more than just technical knowledge; it was a deeper understanding of sustainability, resilience, and the power of determination.
The Drive for Innovation
Val’s decision to pursue an internship in Taiwan was driven by a desire to gain hands-on experience with new and cutting-edge agricultural technologies. "I wanted to see firsthand how innovation can transform traditional farming," Val explained. Taiwan, known for its advancements in agriculture, offered him the perfect environment to explore these modern practices. The opportunity to learn from one of the most progressive agricultural countries in Asia was too valuable to pass up.
Daily Dairy Exposure
Assigned to a dairy farm under the guidance of his host farmer, Cai Qingru, Val’s daily routine was as demanding as it was rewarding. His mornings began at 5:30 AM with milking the cows, followed by feeding the calves in the afternoon. He was also responsible for cleaning the cages, ensuring that the animals were well cared for and the farm maintained to its high standards. "It was hard work," Val admitted, "but the sense of accomplishment at the end of each day made it all worthwhile."
Val’s experience in Taiwan deepened his commitment to sustainable agriculture. He was particularly struck by the Taiwanese emphasis on environmentally friendly practices, including proper waste management. "The exposure to innovative techniques gave me a newfound appreciation for sustainability," he shared. Val realized that sustainability is not just a concept. It is a necessary approach to ensure that agricultural practices remain viable and beneficial for future generations.
Bridging Cultures
In every endeavor, challenges are no strangers in achieving success. Val faced significant language barriers and the unfamiliarity of working on a highly automated farm. "Language barriers hinder us from having the ability to follow instructions required to complete certain tasks, however, we Pinoys excel in figuring out solutions," Val said confidently. He found ways to adapt by attentively observing his colleagues and using non-verbal communication to bridge the gap. His adaptability and resourcefulness allowed him to overcome these obstacles, turning potential setbacks into opportunities for growth.
Adjusting to the cultural and environmental differences in Taiwan was an integral part of Val’s journey. The kindness of the Taiwanese people left a lasting impression on him, as did their efforts to engage with the interns despite the language differences. The cold winters, a notable contrast to the tropical climate of the Philippines, also posed a challenge, but Val pressed on. One of his fondest memories was experiencing the vibrant night markets of Taiwan, where he indulged in local delicacies like stinky tofu and soaked in the lively atmosphere of colorful lights and enthusiastic vendors.
Taiwan Takeaways
Looking back on his time in Taiwan, Val identified the most valuable lesson he learned: the importance of embracing a mindset of curiosity and a willingness to learn. "Acknowledge room for growth," he advised, "and never stop learning."
Val’s relationship with his host farmer, Cai Qingru, was one of mutual respect and support. Cai’s advice, "Do your best. Work hard and enjoy," resonated with Val, who took these words to heart as he navigated the challenges and triumphs of his internship. This mindset, coupled with the practical skills he gained, has prepared him for the next chapter of his life.
As Val returns to the Philippines, his plans are clear. He sees agricultural business as the most strategic choice for his career. He is determined to apply the knowledge and skills he acquired in Taiwan to create a startup enterprise seeing the potential of cattle breeding and cattle fattening in his hometown. With the support of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Val is working on business proposals that will help him secure funding and assistance. His goal is to contribute to the growth of agriculture in his community and inspire others, especially young people, to do the same.
A Call to the Next Generation
Val Vincent Martinez’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and the pursuit of innovation in agriculture. His journey from the fields of Leyte to the dairy farms of Taiwan illustrates the transformative potential of embracing new experiences and stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
To the youth of today, Val offers this encouragement: "There is a vast, untapped potential in agriculture waiting for you to explore. Take the knowledge and experiences you've gained and integrate them into this vital field." While the Philippines is gradually catching up with the innovations of its Asian neighbors, Val urges young people to embrace and apply modern technologies in agriculture. To those who might undervalue agriculture as a career, Val has this to say, "Even if agriculture doesn't appeal to you personally, you can still play a crucial role in promoting and supporting it."
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