Opportunities are like sunrise: if you wait too long, you might miss them. That is why seize them while they shine. In the case of Ernesto Pebte Molero Jr., a young farmer from Saint Bernard, Southern Leyte, seizing a once in a lifetime opportunity changed his view on agriculture. Ernesto was one of the young farmers selected for the Filipino Young Farmer Internship Program in Taiwan (FYFIPT), Batch 3. This opportunity was not only a chance for professional growth but also a deeply personal journey shaped by dreams for the family and a desire to embrace modern farming techniques.
Ernesto's motivation to participate in the internship was rooted in his interest in aquaculture and the pursuit of advanced agricultural practices. The loss of his mother in 2022 left Ernesto and his father to manage their farm alone, intensifying the emotional weight of him leaving for the internship. Once they learned about him qualifying for the internship, a mix of emotions spurred from his father. “He was both proud and apprehensive,” Ernesto recalls. “He supported my decision but was worried about managing the farm without me.” His father's advice to stay focused and not let homesickness hinder his progress became a source of strength during Ernesto’s time abroad.
Navigating the Modern Farm: A Day in the Life
Ernesto was assigned to Chiu Brother's Farm, a farm specializing in aquaculture in Budai Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan. During his 11-month internship, Ernesto’s daily routine began at 6:00 AM and extended into the late afternoon. His primary responsibilities included maintaining paddle wheels to ensure adequate oxygen levels in aquaculture ponds and monitoring water quality. These tasks were critical for the health of the fish and the overall success of the farm.
In Taiwan, Ernesto observed a level of technological advancement significantly different from what he was accustomed to. “The automation in feeding systems and the scale of operations were impressive,” he explains. “Machinery like forklifts and cranes were used for harvesting, and the emphasis was on maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste.” This exposure to high-tech farming practices broadened Ernesto’s perspective and equipped him with new skills.
Bridging Cultural Gaps and Foreign Insights
One of the significant challenges Ernesto faced was the language barrier. Communicating effectively with colleagues and supervisors required patience and creativity. “Using Google Translate and learning basic sign language helped me overcome this obstacle,” he says. Despite the initial difficulties, his adaptability and willingness to learn enabled him to thrive in this new environment.
Through his internship, Ernesto also learned valuable cultural lessons, such as the importance of respecting local customs like not placing chopsticks upright in rice. These experiences helped him integrate more smoothly into Taiwanese society.
He also gained hands-on experience with various agricultural technologies. He learned about the operation and purpose of paddle wheels, automatic feeders, and pulverizers. Additionally, he observed the integration of solar panels over fish ponds—a practice designed to optimize space and enhance sustainability.
A memorable experience for Ernesto was his involvement in repairing a malfunctioning machine. His background in machine repair set him apart, leading his host farmer, Ching Yao, Chiu, to place greater trust in him. “Being trusted with more responsibilities was a significant moment for me,” Ernesto reflects. “It validated my skills and deepened my connection with my host farmer.”
Future Plans: Combining Knowledge and Tradition
Upon returning to the Philippines, Ernesto is eager to apply the knowledge and skills he acquired in Taiwan. Although his family’s primary income comes from copra farming, Ernesto plans to incorporate aquaculture into their farm. “I want to convert some of our land into fish ponds and implement the technologies I learned,” he says. His goal is to expand their farming operations and explore new agricultural practices that can improve productivity and provide additional sources of income.
Being a result of a life immersed in agriculture, Ernesto’s journey underscores the critical role of agriculture in sustaining communities and economies. “Agriculture is the backbone of our economy,” he asserts. “Without it, our barangays, cities, and country wouldn’t survive. It’s a profession that truly makes a difference.”
Ernesto Molero Jr.’s story is a testament to the power of blending tradition with modern innovation. His experience in Taiwan has not only enriched his professional skills but also inspired a vision for the future—one where traditional farming practices meet cutting-edge technology to create a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural landscape.
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