The recent Binhi ng Pag-Asa Program (BPP) Provincial Summits, held in Tarlac, Oriental Mindoro, and Laguna from November 8 to November 13, 2024, marked a significant milestone in empowering the youth in agriculture. Implemented by the Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) in partnership with the Office of Senator Grace Poe, the BPP aims to cultivate competent agripreneurs through localized training and leadership development.
This year, extensive training sessions were held across 18 municipalities in Tarlac, 15 municipalities in Oriental Mindoro, and 30 municipalities in Laguna. The provincial summits provided a vibrant platform for 1,150 young farmers to showcase their skills and share innovative ideas. The events took place in notable venues, specifically in Tarlac Agricultural University; ATI-Regional Training Center MIMAROPA; and Gintong Bukid Farm and Leisure.
Participants engaged in various competitions designed to enhance their agricultural knowledge, including agri-legislative policy solutions, agri-innovation project pitching, Kwento ng Pag-Asa provincial video competition, and a quiz bee/provincial feud. These contests not only tested their understanding of agricultural practices but also encouraged creativity and critical thinking. The winners of these contests will represent their provinces at the upcoming national summit, further highlighting their contributions to the agricultural sector.
The summits were supported by the partner institutions in the regions, which underscored their collective commitment to nurturing future leaders in agriculture and fostering sustainable agripreneurship among the youth. The program aimed not only to enhance agricultural productivity but also to instill values of leadership and social responsibility among its participants.
In addition to showcasing talents and skills, the provincial summits emphasized the importance of storytelling in agriculture. The Kwento ng Pag-Asa video competition allowed the participants to share their personal journeys and challenges as young farmers, inspiring others with their resilience and determination. This narrative approach is vital for building a community of support among young agripreneurs who face similar obstacles. As these youth continue to develop their agricultural ventures, they are not only contributing to local economies but also promoting sustainable practices that can benefit the environment.
Overall, the Binhi ng Pag-Asa Program continues to play a crucial role in nurturing future leaders in agriculture. By equipping young farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive as agripreneurs, the program is paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural sector in the Philippines.
