SM Foundation Inc., the corporate social responsibility arm of SM
Group of Companies, continues its commitment to sustainable development and
community empowerment with the launch of its “Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan” program
on sustainable agriculture in Zamboanga City.
The program, which aims to uplift the lives of farmers and promote sustainable farming practices, was officially launched in a ceremony held at SM Cinema Mindpro today, March 1.
100 farmers from barangay Culianan, Cabaluay, Salaan, and Lanzones
were the recipients for this year’s KSK program. Present at the event were SM
Foundation Assistant Vice President for Livelihood and Outreach Programs Cristie
Angeles, representatives from partner government agencies which include
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Technical Education and
Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Agriculture (DA),
Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry
(DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the City Agriculture’s
Office of the local government unit of Zamboanga.
“Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan” seeks to address the challenges faced by
farmers in Zamboanga City by providing them with the necessary knowledge,
skills, and resources to improve their agricultural practices and increase
their productivity. Through a series of training sessions, workshops, and
technical assistance, farmers will learn about sustainable farming techniques,
crop management, pest control, and market linkages from SM Foundation and
partner government agencies.
“We believe that agriculture plays a crucial role in the economic development
of our communities,” said Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, SM City Mindpro Mall
Manager. “By empowering our farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural
practices, we can help improve their livelihoods, ensure food security, and
contribute to the overall well-being of the community.”
In addition to training and capacity-building activities, the program
will also provide farmers with access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and other
agricultural inputs to support their farming operations. Furthermore, SM
Foundation will work closely with local government unit and other stakeholders
to create market opportunities for farmers and facilitate their participation
in value chains.
The launch of "Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan" in Zamboanga City marks the beginning of a new chapter in SM Foundation's efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and empower farming communities across the Philippines. Through collaborative partnerships and innovative solutions, the foundation remains committed to building a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
For more information about SM Foundation and its programs, please visit www.sm-foundation.org.
