Empowering Bukidnon Coffee Farmers Through Hands-On Training and Global Support: Highlights from the Farmer-Scientist Training Program Phase 2
On June 17 and 18, 2025, Varacco Inc. conducted Session 2 of the Farmer-Scientist Training Program Phase 2 (FSTP2) as part of its ongoing efforts to support the growth and development of coffee farmers in Bukidnon under the Smart FARM Project. This initiative bridges theoretical knowledge from FSTP Phase 1 with real-world agricultural practice, emphasizing the importance of experience-based learning for local farmer-beneficiaries.
The training aimed to equip farmers with practical skills in coffee propagation, nursery establishment, and nursery management. To the highest quality, Varacco
invited expert trainers from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) Davao—Ms. Jonalyn Paubayan and Mr. Bryan Satina—who brought with them years of knowledge and hands-on expertise in sustainable farming techniques.
On June 17 and 18, 2025, Varacco Inc. conducted Session 2 of the Farmer-Scientist Training Program Phase 2 (FSTP2) as part of its ongoing efforts to support the growth and development of coffee farmers in Bukidnon under the Smart FARM Project. This initiative bridges theoretical knowledge from FSTP Phase 1 with real-world agricultural practice, emphasizing the importance of experience-based learning for local farmer-beneficiaries.
The training aimed to equip farmers with practical skills in coffee propagation, nursery establishment, and nursery management. To the highest quality, Varacco invited expert trainers from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) Davao—Ms. Jonalyn Paubayan and Mr. Bryan Satina—who brought with them years of knowledge and hands-on expertise in sustainable farming techniques.
The training was divided into two site-specific sessions: the first day was held at the MILFACO site in Miarayon, Talakag, and the second day took place at the PTTA site in Brgy. Portulin, Pangantucan. These strategically chosen locations enabled broader reach and participation among local farmer-scientists.
Participants enthusiastically engaged in a variety of propagation methods, including grafting and stem cutting, using germination chambers. The training format featured short, engaging lectures lasting approximately one hour, followed by 30-minute hands-on sessions. Farmers were encouraged to practice multiple times, with trainers gladly accommodating
their eagerness by providing additional materials. The smiles, curiosity, and enthusiasm of the participants clearly reflected the value of experiential learning in deepening their understanding and confidence.
The training was divided into two site-specific sessions: the first day was held at the MILFACO site in Miarayon, Talakag, and the second day took place at the PTTA site in Brgy. Portulin, Pangantucan. These strategically chosen locations enabled broader reach and participation among local farmer-scientists.
Participants enthusiastically engaged in a variety of propagation methods, including grafting and stem cutting, using germination chambers. The training format featured short, engaging lectures lasting approximately one hour, followed by 30-minute hands-on sessions. Farmers were encouraged to practice multiple times, with trainers gladly accommodating their eagerness by providing additional materials. The smiles, curiosity, and enthusiasm of the participants clearly reflected the value of experiential learning in deepening their understanding and confidence.
A significant highlight of the training occurred on June 18, when the site in Portulin received a visit from several international and national dignitaries and partners. The delegation included representatives from the Green Global Growth Institute (GGGI) and the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, such as Mr. Feelgeun Song, Korean Lead in the Department of Partnership and Governance; Ms. Eunji Roh, Senior Officer; and Ms. Jungwa Kwon, KOICA Multilateral Cooperative Officer and Senior Officer in GGGI Philippines. They were joined by officials from the Mindanao Development Authority, including Mr. Sylvester Sales, Ms. Niña Yago, Mr. Abdul Talib, and Mr. Benie Angchay, as
well as Mr. Carl Vincent Gapasin and Mr. Mark Jay Nono from the Bureau of Plant Industry – Main Office.
The presence of Honorable Mayor Manalito Garces of Pangantucan further elevated the occasion. Mayor Garces has consistently shown his support for the Smart FARM Project, and his visit on that day served as a reaffirmation of the local government’s commitment to helping its farmer constituents succeed in agriculture.
A significant highlight of the training occurred on June 18, when the site in Portulin received a visit from several international and national dignitaries and partners. The delegation included representatives from the Green Global Growth Institute (GGGI) and the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, such as Mr. Feelgeun Song, Korean Lead in the Department of Partnership and Governance; Ms. Eunji Roh, Senior Officer; and Ms. Jungwa Kwon, KOICA Multilateral Cooperative Officer and Senior Officer in GGGI Philippines. They were joined by officials from the Mindanao Development Authority, including Mr. Sylvester Sales, Ms. Niña Yago, Mr. Abdul Talib, and Mr. Benie Angchay, as well as Mr. Carl Vincent Gapasin and Mr. Mark Jay Nono from the Bureau of Plant Industry – Main Office.
The presence of Honorable Mayor Manalito Garces of Pangantucan further elevated the occasion. Mayor Garces has consistently shown his support for the Smart FARM Project, and his visit on that day served as a reaffirmation of the local government’s commitment to helping its farmer constituents succeed in agriculture.
Upon their arrival, the guests were warmly welcomed with a cultural performance by the Kulahi Pangantucan group of the Portulin Talaandig Tribe, coordinated by Ms. Lea Apal, head of the Department of Tourism in Pangantucan. Traditional dances and the playing of indigenous musical instruments offered visitors an authentic glimpse into the cultural heritage of Bukidnon’s farming
communities. The guests expressed delight as they captured videos and immersed themselves in the local tradition, highlighting the importance of cultural appreciation in development work.
To further enrich the visit, Mr. Ariestelo Asilo performed a live demonstration of the V60 pourover brewing method using coffee beans sourced from the same seedlings being propagated by the farmers—Arabica, Liberica, and Batangas varieties. This experience offered guests a sensory understanding of the entire farming process, from seed propagation to the final brewed cup.
The delegation also toured the nursery area, where they observed various sections such as the germination chambers and the zones for bagged seedlings. Each part of the nursery was carefully explained by the Varacco team to help guests appreciate the technical and scientific aspects of coffee production. The visit was not only a learning opportunity but also a strong gesture of support for the project and the farmers involved.
Upon their arrival, the guests were warmly welcomed with a cultural performance by the Kulahi Pangantucan group of the Portulin Talaandig Tribe, coordinated by Ms. Lea Apal, head of the Department of Tourism in Pangantucan. Traditional dances and the playing of indigenous musical instruments offered visitors an authentic glimpse into the cultural heritage of Bukidnon’s farming communities. The guests expressed delight as they captured videos and immersed themselves in the local tradition, highlighting the importance of cultural appreciation in development work.
To further enrich the visit, Mr. Ariestelo Asilo performed a live demonstration of the V60 pourover brewing method using coffee beans sourced from the same seedlings being propagated by the farmers—Arabica, Liberica, and Batangas varieties. This experience offered guests a sensory understanding of the entire farming process, from seed propagation to the final brewed cup.
The delegation also toured the nursery area, where they observed various sections such as the germination chambers and the zones for bagged seedlings. Each part of the nursery was carefully explained by the Varacco team to help guests appreciate the technical and scientific aspects of coffee production. The visit was not only a learning opportunity but also a strong gesture of support for the project and the farmers involved.
Overall, the two-day FSTP2 session was a resounding success. Farmers gained new knowledge, practiced important propagation skills, and expressed confidence in applying what they learned to their farms and nurseries. At the same time, the presence of stakeholders from different sectors, including government, international partners, and the local community demonstrated a unified commitment to agricultural transformation.
Through initiatives like the Smart FARM Project and FSTP, Varacco continues to guide farmers toward becoming SMART in managing their farms—ensuring they are properly equipped with the knowledge, tools, and discipline needed to care for their land, operate their nurseries effectively, and become responsible stewards of agricultural
development. This approach reinforces not just in productivity but sustainability and pride in the farming profession, especially in the coffee-rich province of Bukidnon.
– Jessa Carabaca
AI tools were used for editing and clarity improvement only.
Overall, the two-day FSTP2 session was a resounding success. Farmers gained new knowledge, practiced important propagation skills, and expressed confidence in applying what they learned to their farms and nurseries. At the same time, the presence of stakeholders from different sectors, including government, international partners, and the local community demonstrated a unified commitment to agricultural transformation.
Through initiatives like the Smart FARM Project and FSTP, Varacco continues to guide farmers toward becoming SMART in managing their farms—ensuring they are properly equipped with the knowledge, tools, and discipline needed to care for their land, operate their nurseries effectively, and become responsible stewards of agricultural development. This approach reinforces not just in productivity but sustainability and pride in the farming profession, especially in the coffee-rich province of Bukidnon.
– Jessa Carabaca
AI tools were used for editing and clarity improvement only.
On June 17 and 18, 2025, Varacco Inc. conducted Session 2 of the Farmer-Scientist Training Program Phase 2 (FSTP2) as part of its ongoing efforts to support the growth and development of coffee farmers in Bukidnon under the Smart FARM Project. This initiative bridges theoretical knowledge from FSTP Phase 1 with real-world agricultural practice, emphasizing the importance of experience-based learning for local farmer-beneficiaries.
The training aimed to equip farmers with practical skills in coffee propagation, nursery establishment, and nursery management. To the highest quality, Varacco invited expert trainers from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) Davao—Ms. Jonalyn Paubayan and Mr. Bryan Satina—who brought with them years of knowledge and hands-on expertise in sustainable farming techniques.
The training was divided into two site-specific sessions: the first day was held at the MILFACO site in Miarayon, Talakag, and the second day took place at the PTTA site in Brgy. Portulin, Pangantucan. These strategically chosen locations enabled broader reach and participation among local farmer-scientists.
Participants enthusiastically engaged in a variety of propagation methods, including grafting and stem cutting, using germination chambers. The training format featured
short, engaging lectures lasting approximately one hour, followed by 30-minute hands-on sessions. Farmers were encouraged to practice multiple times, with trainers gladly accommodating their eagerness by providing additional materials. The smiles, curiosity, and enthusiasm of the participants clearly reflected the value of experiential learning in deepening their understanding and confidence.
A significant highlight of the training occurred on June 18, when the site in Portulin received a visit from several international and national dignitaries and partners. The delegation included representatives from the Green Global Growth Institute (GGGI) and the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, such as Mr. Feelgeun Song, Korean Lead in the Department of Partnership and Governance; Ms. Eunji Roh, Senior Officer; and Ms. Jungwa Kwon, KOICA Multilateral Cooperative Officer and Senior Officer in GGGI Philippines.
They were joined by officials from the Mindanao Development Authority, including Mr. Sylvester Sales, Ms. Niña Yago, Mr. Abdul Talib, and Mr. Benie Angchay, as well as Mr. Carl Vincent Gapasin and Mr. Mark Jay Nono from the Bureau of Plant Industry – Main Office.
Upon their arrival, the guests were warmly welcomed with a cultural performance by the Kulahi Pangantucan group of the Portulin Talaandig Tribe, coordinated by Ms. Lea Apal, head of the Department of Tourism in Pangantucan. Traditional dances and the playing of indigenous musical instruments offered visitors an authentic glimpse into the cultural heritage of Bukidnon’s farming communities. The guests expressed delight as they captured videos and immersed themselves in the local tradition, highlighting the
importance of cultural appreciation in development work.
To further enrich the visit, Mr. Ariestelo Asilo performed a live demonstration of the V60 pourover brewing method using coffee beans sourced from the same seedlings being propagated by the farmers—Arabica, Liberica, and Batangas varieties. This experience offered guests a sensory understanding of the entire farming process, from seed propagation to the final brewed cup.
The delegation also toured the nursery area, where they observed various sections such as the germination chambers and the zones for bagged seedlings. Each part of the nursery was carefully explained by the Varacco team to help guests appreciate the technical and scientific aspects of coffee production. The visit was not only a learning opportunity but also a strong gesture of support for the project and the farmers involved.
Overall, the two-day FSTP2 session was a resounding success. Farmers gained new knowledge, practiced important propagation skills, and expressed confidence in applying what they learned to their farms and nurseries. At the same time, the presence of stakeholders from different sectors, including government, international partners, and the local community demonstrated a unified commitment to agricultural transformation.
Through initiatives like the Smart FARM Project and FSTP, Varacco continues to guide farmers toward becoming SMART in managing their farms—ensuring they are properly
equipped with the knowledge, tools, and discipline needed to care for their land, operate their nurseries effectively, and become responsible stewards of agricultural development. This approach reinforces not just in productivity but sustainability and pride in the farming profession, especially in the coffee-rich province of Bukidnon.
– Jessa Carabaca
AI tools were used for editing and clarity improvement only.