FEATURE: SLOVEGA’s small wins and milestones -Three admiring stories of farmer-members of San Lorenzo Vegetables Growers Association (Slovega)

The Young President SLOVEGA ever had

In San Lorenzo, Guimaras, an alive community of vegetable farmers thrives from a simple “for data-gathering initiative” to a significant force in high-value crop production, contributing significantly to the province’s agricultural setting.

Since its inception in 2015, San Lorenzo Vegetable Growers Association (SLOVEGA) has blossomed into something much more. Under the dynamic leadership of Mrs. Raquel Tacado, the youngest president in the history of the association, has evolved into a key player in high-value crop production, a significant contributor to the province’s agricultural economy. This growth is a testament to the rich agricultural potential of San Lorenzo, particularly in the realm of vegetable production.

“I believe in farmers’ vital role in the community and the nation. I envision for SLOVEGA to grow, sustain, and prosper”, Raquel explains.

With 52 registered initial members, SLOVEGA has faced its fair share of challenges. Only 36 members are currently active, and the association has struggled to maintain member engagement. Some members have grown disillusioned due to periods of inactivity and a perceived lack of progress. However, the active members have remained steadfast, consistently attending meetings and collaborating on various projects.

Raquel leads SLOVEGA with passion and determination. Despite initial doubts about her ability to balance her roles as a wife, mother of two, and president of SLOVEGA, she has successfully navigated these challenges. Her day starts at 4 a.m. as she tends to her farm, nurturing her crops with care and dedication. She then moves on to meet her members or attend meetings, including those of the Municipal Agri-fishery Council (MAPC).

One of the most impactful interventions Raquel has received from the DA has been the opportunity to attend seminars and trainings. These educational experiences have equipped her with valuable knowledge and skills, which she has used to benefit SLOVEGA. The Guimaras Provincial Office for Agricultural Services (POAS) has also provided essential support, helping meet the farmers’ crop needs.

Under Raquel’s leadership, SLOVEGA has embarked on several significant projects. One notable initiative, in collaboration with the province, is the establishment of communal gardens. Members received organic fertilizer, seeds, and garden tools, greatly enhancing their farming capabilities. The Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO) has also supported SLOVEGA by setting up vermicomposting projects, further aiding in sustainable farming practices.

“With the continued cooperation and hard work of SLOVEGA members, we are going to achieve greater heights, contributing to the agricultural success of San Lorenzo,” Raquel added.

Recently, SLOVEGA took a significant step forward as it participated in a crucial validation and profiling session of the DA High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), the Farm and Fisheries Clustering and Consolidation (F2C2) program, POAS Guimaras, and the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist of San Lorenzo. The primary goal of this session was to ensure that SLOVEGA, along with other farmer associations, meets the minimum requirements outlined in the F2C2 guidelines for clustering under high-value crop programs. By meeting these guidelines, SLOVEGA gains significant support and resources, empowering its members to achieve greater productivity and success in their agricultural endeavors.

These resources have been instrumental in the farmers’ success, allowing them to supply vegetables to San Lorenzo and nearby municipalities. SLOVEGA’s involvement in MAPC activities has also fostered community and shared purpose among its members.

Looking ahead, Raquel has ambitious plans for SLOVEGA. She envisions helping her members improve their farming techniques and venture into value-adding activities.

“In spite of the progress made, there are still needs we wish to address, such as acquiring storage facilities and additional training for members”, Raquel explains. ###

Return Home for Good

Anthony Vilches, a 37-year-old farmer from Cabungaan, is an admirable example of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Apart from his wife, who works abroad, Anthony has taken on the dual role of father and farmer, raising his two children and cultivating a 0.76-hectare eggplant farm in M. Chavez, owned by his uncle. His unwavering commitment to his family is a testament to his strength and determination.

Anthony’s decision to plant eggplants was inspired by farming vloggers whose online presence provided him with invaluable insights and techniques. Eggplants, known for their steady market price and frequent harvesting cycle, became his crop of choice. Anthony’s success in cultivating eggplants, reaping the fruits of his labor every three days, is a source of inspiration for many. His extensive childhood training in agriculture has equipped him with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in his farming endeavors.

El Niño has posed significant challenges for Anthony, particularly with water shortages threatening his crops. He relies on deep wells to irrigate his plants every morning and afternoon to combat this. Before planting, he meticulously ensures that his land can access a stable water source. His dedication to maintaining the health of his plants involves being hands-on in preventing damage from fungi, insects, and animals.

Anthony’s membership in the San Lorenzo Vegetable Growers Association (SLOVEGA), facilitated by President Raquel Tacadao, has been instrumental in his success. Through SLOVEGA, he has gained valuable knowledge and support that have enhanced his farming practices. The association has also provided him a sense of community and a platform to share experiences and learn from fellow farmers.

Despite the harsh impacts of El Niño, which led to a profit loss during one harvest season, Anthony’s commitment to farming and his family’s well-being never wavered. His highest estimated income from a single harvest reached 10,000 pesos for 300 kilos of eggplants. He continues to invest in his farm, which has a capital of 80,000 pesos, and ensures fair wages for his staff, which consists of his uncle and cousin.

Anthony’s vision for the future includes securing a water pump to improve his irrigation system further and preparing for future El Niño occurrences by ensuring a sustainable water source. His proactive approach to future challenges instills hope and optimism. With the assistance of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) and the San Lorenzo Municipal Agriculture Office, he is seeking ways to mitigate the risks posed by climate challenges.

As Anthony continues to seek buyers for his produce, constructing a marketplace in his area remains a hopeful prospect. His philosophy of attentive care for his plants, believing that focused and dedicated farming can prevent losses, drives his daily efforts.

Through his hard work and the backing of SLOVEGA, he has turned his small farm into an inspiration of hope, providing for his family and motivating other farmers to follow in his footsteps. As he waits for the day his wife can return home for good, Anthony’s journey exemplifies the strength and resilience of the Filipino farmer.###

A Family’s Dedication to Farming

In San Lorenzo, there is a story of a mother who tirelessly tills the soil, plants vegetables, and joyfully engages with her family and community- Cellymar Gagante, fondly known as Ma’am Nene. She is one of the active members of San Lorenzo Vegetable Growers Association (SLOVEGA) who fuels the organization’s resilience, passion, and community spirit. At 39, Ma’am Nene, alongside her husband Garry Gagante, has turned a humble backyard garden into a thriving agricultural enterprise, providing sustenance and inspiration to their community.

Ma’am Nene has been farming for seven years, cultivating various crops, including eggplant, okra, squash, cucumber, sponge gourd, tomato, chili pepper, corn, watermelon, and melon during summer. Their shared dedication to farming is a source of income and a cherished hobby, bringing joy and fulfillment, especially during harvest time.

With a ten-year-old child, Xian Rynce, entering Grade V, the Gagante family’s life revolves around the land they cultivate. Despite the challenges of limited capital and the devastating impact of calamities like Typhoon Odette, they stand strong, driven by their love for farming and the desire to provide for their family and community.

Over the past seven years, Ma’am Nene and Garry have achieved remarkable success, particularly with their eggplant and sponge gourd harvests, each exceeding one ton. Their produce reaches customers through various channels, including online sales, KADIWA Guimaras Electric Cooperative Office (GUIMELCO), and direct purchases from their homes. Every due date and Tuesday, they bring their fresh vegetables to the local market and at GUIMELCO, ensuring a steady supply for their loyal customers.

The Gagantes’ journey has been challenging. The pandemic severely affected their ability to sell crops, leading to significant losses. Despite these setbacks, they continue to innovate and adapt. In 2023, their watermelon harvest yielded an impressive profit of 300 thousand pesos, showcasing their potential for growth and success.

During challenging periods like El Niño, the Gagantes employ hands-on farming techniques, brainstorm crop selection, and meticulously manage their sales to ensure profitability. Their approach to farming, a blend of traditional practices and modern strategies, showcases their adaptability and resilience.

Active participants in SLOVEGA, Ma’am Nene, and Garry contribute to and benefit from the association’s initiatives, which the Local Government Unit supports. Through SLOVEGA, they receive seeds from KADIWA, join training sessions, and share best practices with fellow farmers. This sense of community and collaboration has been instrumental in their journey, providing them with the resources and knowledge needed to overcome challenges.

Ma’am Nene envisions expanding their farming operations if they can secure sufficient capital. She believes that with government assistance, they can enhance their crop quality and increase their production, benefiting not only their town but the entire province of Guimaras.

“On behalf of the farmers, I want the government to know that we need assistance because we are the ones who provide crops to the people,” Ma’am Nene passionately advocates. Her vision is a testament to her deep commitment to her community and her strong desire to see local agriculture thrive.

Ma’am Nene’s story, intertwined with SLOVEGA’s efforts, is a powerful reminder of the strength and perseverance of farmers who continue cultivating success, one harvest at a time.### (DA-RAFIS 6) Photos by: C. Lauresta