Written by: Analiza S. Pacheco

In the lush fields and serene countryside of New Lucena, Iloilo, a group of dedicated individuals work tirelessly day in and day out, ensuring that the food on our plates is not only plentiful but also nutritious. These unsung heroes? The farmers. In particular, the Cabilauan Farmers Association (CFA), based in Brgy. Cabilauan, is a shining example of perseverance and passion. With 96 registered members as of January 2023, CFA plays a crucial role in supporting the town’s agricultural backbone, making sure that the community has access to fresh, healthy produce.

A Strong Foundation for Growth

Officially recognized by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and accredited under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) of the Department of Agriculture, CFA is not just any ordinary farmers’ group. They’re also members of the Barangay Development Council (BDC) and the IPAT-SIAD Program Planning, Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation Team (PIME). The association is responsible for managing the Bagsakan Center in Cabilauan, a vital hub for local produce, and has been awarded farm machinery through the RCEF to improve efficiency.

Facing Challenges Head-On

As President Mr. Cecilio E. Niego shares, the challenges faced by the CFA members are far from easy. From unpredictable weather patterns like droughts and floods to pests and diseases threatening crops, their work is a constant battle. Add to that the ever-fluctuating market prices, and it’s no wonder that the farming community needs more than just hard work to thrive. But despite these hurdles, the CFA continues to press on, embracing innovative solutions to sustain their livelihoods.

Empowered by SEA Inc.

The turning point for CFA came through the intervention of Solution Ecosystems Activator (SEA) Inc. With the support of LifeBank Foundation, the association’s members gained access to various capacity-building opportunities, including training in Sustainable and Organic Agriculture, learning to create organic fertilizers, and participating in strategic planning and project proposal making. These initiatives empowered CFA members, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to become one of the most recognized and effective farmer associations in New Lucena.

Innovating for the Future

Despite the challenges, the CFA members are committed to innovation. With their passion for improving productivity and sustainability, they proposed the creation of a Demo Farm on Organic Vegetable Production through their project called “PAKBET AND MORE.” The goal of the project is simple: produce healthy, affordable vegetables for their families, their community, and even the entire town.

Thanks to the generous funding of P1.3 million from the LifeBank Foundation, this project is now set to materialize. It’s a testament to the CFA’s unwavering dedication and a clear sign that the group is not only capable of weathering challenges but also of shaping a sustainable future for themselves and the community.

The Power of Support

CFA’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the support from partners like SEA Inc. and LifeBank Foundation, but this journey is a shared responsibility. Government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and individuals all play a crucial role in ensuring that farmers like those in CFA have the resources, knowledge, and financial backing they need to thrive. Investments in agricultural research and development will help farmers adopt innovative practices and stay ahead of challenges.

How You Can Help

The key to supporting local farmers is simple: buy local. By purchasing products directly from the source, consumers help ensure a fair and sustainable food system that benefits everyone. It’s a small action that makes a big difference for local farming communities.

Honoring Our Farmers

Farmers are the true unsung heroes of society. Their tireless dedication, resilience in the face of adversity, and commitment to sustainable practices ensure that we not only eat well today but that future generations can do the same. Let’s celebrate the hard work of farmers like the CFA members, who are truly the backbone of our society. By supporting their efforts, we can contribute to a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector that will feed the world for years to come.