Pinoy Farmer

 In the heart of the Philippine countryside, where the earth is rich and the sun generously beams its light, thousands of Filipino farmers rise with hope each morning. For many, onion farming is not just a livelihood — it’s a heritage, a life’s work cultivated through generations. But today, that heritage is under siege, not by nature, but by the tides of imported goods. The Life of an Onion Farmer Growing onions in the Philippines, especially in provinces like Nueva Ecija, Ilocos Norte, and Mindoro, is a labor of love. From planting delicate seeds to painstakingly nurturing crops through unpredictable weather, Filipino farmers invest months of sweat, care, and patience. Harvest time, typically from December to April, should be a season of reward. However, the reality for many farmers is far from prosperous. Production costs — fertilizers, irrigation, pesticides, and labor — have soared. Meanwhile, prices they receive for their onions often barely cover these costs, leaving farm...

Nestled in the mountainous regions of Northern Luzon, the rice terraces stand as both cultural heritage and vital agricultural systems. Built by hand and maintained for generations, these terraces showcase Filipino ingenuity and the deep bond between people and nature. Why the Rice Terraces Matter Cultural Significance: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the terraces are a symbol of ancient indigenous knowledge passed down for over 2,000 years. Sustainability: Terraced farming helps prevent soil erosion, controls water runoff, and maintains biodiversity in upland ecosystems. Food Security: These terraces support local rice production in regions where flat land is scarce. Challenges in Upland Agriculture Limited Mechanization: The terraces’ steep terrain makes it difficult to use modern farming machinery. Climate Vulnerability: Typhoons and landslides frequently damage infrastructure and crops. Youth Migration: Many young people leave farming communities, leading to fewer han...

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the Philippine economy, and with the evolving challenges of climate change and food security, the demand for skilled professionals in this sector has never been higher. If you’re considering a career in agriculture, here’s a detailed look at some of the top institutions in the Philippines offering agriculture programs, along with pertinent data to guide your decision. 📈 Growth in Agriculture Education According to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), enrollment in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries (AFF) courses nearly doubled from 63,471 in 2010 to 115,458 in 2020.  This surge reflects a growing interest among the youth in pursuing careers in agriculture, driven by the sector’s pivotal role in national development. 🎓 Leading Agriculture Universities 1.  University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) Location: Los Baños, Laguna Programs: BS in Agriculture, BS in Agricultural Biotechnology, BS in Agribusiness Man...

In a major step toward modernizing Philippine agriculture, a delegation from the Department of Agriculture (DA), led by Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr., recently traveled to South Korea to explore investment opportunities with the Korea Agricultural Machinery Industry Cooperative (KAMICO). The discussions focused on the development of a groundbreaking project: a 20-hectare Korea Agriculture Machinery Industry Complex in Nueva Ecija. Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized the significance of the project in achieving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a robust and modern agricultural sector. “This project plays a crucial role in realizing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a modernized Philippine agriculture—one that ensures food security and uplifts the lives of our farmers,” said Tiu Laurel. He added that the initiative would not only drive technological advancements but also bring in foreign investments, create new jobs, and transfer innovative farming technologies...

Farming has always been the lifeblood of the Philippines. With over 10 million Filipinos depending on agriculture for their livelihood, the tools they use—both old and new—tell a powerful story of resilience, ingenuity, and adaptation. Traditional Tools: Echoes of the Past In many rural areas, time-tested tools are still widely used. These are more than just implements—they're symbols of tradition and a deep connection to the land. Araro (Plow): Pulled by carabaos, the araro is used to till the soil, especially in rice paddies. It’s slow but effective, especially in wet, sticky terrain. Suyod (Rake): Essential for removing weeds in rice fields. Its wide, comb-like structure allows farmers to maintain neat and healthy paddies. Bolo: A multipurpose blade used for everything from clearing fields to harvesting crops. It’s a farmer’s constant companion. Modern Tools: Boosting Efficiency As farming faces the twin challenges of climate change and an aging workforce, moder...