In the Philippines, an agri-business group is promoting the use of modern technology to help farmers optimize their operations and increase their yields. Moreover, it aims to attract the youth through fun farming so that they get involved again in the biggest job in the world.

THINNKFARM, INC., a non-government organization (NGO), educates local growers on various agricultural processes such as soil preparation, irrigation, and fertilization but with the aid of scientific equipment. It recently partnered with Varacco, Inc., a coffee manufacturing company, that advocates a system called “Internet-of-Things” (IOT). Through IOT, ground data from farmers will be gathered and then analyzed to come up with targeted solutions to specific agricultural challenges.

These amazing devices of the future will be designed and installed by Packetworx, a social IT enterprise in the Philippines.

The system involves using sensors and data analysis to monitor a range of factors, including soil moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels. This information is then used to make informed decisions about planting, fertilizing, and watering, all of which can have a significant impact on crop yields.

“One of the key benefits of this technology is that it allows farmers to make real-time adjustments based on the latest data,” Ariestelo ‘Aries’ Asilo, founder of THINNKFARM, said.

“This can save time and resources, as farmers no longer need to manually monitor and adjust these factors,” he added.

Under THINNKFARM’s “ThinnkTech” program, farmers will then receive training on how to monitor climate and environmental factors using IOT to improve their crop productivity.

“Farmers can now determine exactly what nutrients are needed and in what quantities, reducing over-fertilization and soil pollution that comes with it,” Aries explained.

“This can help our farmers save money because one, they will not overspend in fertilizers and two, labor cost is reduced as farm owners can remotely monitor their areas,” he added.

Varacco first partnered with the International Institute of Rural Reconstruction to focus on coffee farming. Thanks to this partnership, and the grants provided by PhilCAFE, at least 300 smallholder coffee farmers in Cavite and 87 in Davao will have access to this innovative technology. Exciting times are ahead! Farming is about to get more fun in the Philippines! — RUFFIE NYHL CRUZ