Filipino agricultural Leaders return from South Korea with Blueprint for Smart Farming Revolution
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Western Visayas is poised to embrace a new era of agricultural innovation following an intensive training program in South Korea, equipping local leaders with the tools and knowledge to modernize farming practices.
Sixteen delegates representing the department of Agriculture, local government units, and farmers’ cooperatives across Western Visayas recently completed a rigorous training program focused on smart agriculture. Held in South Korea from October 14 to 27,2025,the program aimed to address local farming challenges and bolster the region’s agricultural value chain through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and strategies.
The training, organized by the Korea Institute for Development strategy (KDS) through the Korea International Cooperation Agency’s (KOICA) Official Development Assistance (ODA) program, is a key component of the five-year “Value-Chain enhancement of High-Value Crops through Smart Agriculture (VEHCSA)” project.This initiative seeks to transform agricultural practices in Western Visayas, fostering both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Immersive Learning Through Field Exposure and Expert Insights
The course curriculum was structured around four core modules: policy,technology,marketing,and action plan formulation. Participants engaged in a thorough learning experience, combining lectures, discussions, and over 65 hours of hands-on field exposure. This immersive approach allowed delegates to witness firsthand the implementation of smart-farming technologies, from automated greenhouse systems to precision irrigation techniques. A key takeaway for manny was the collaborative spirit of Korean agricultural offices. “The way different offices systematically coordinate to help farmers.Experiences like these can encourage transformative thinking among our policymakers to employ reforms that could elevate Philippine agriculture.”
For Maria Teresa T. Solis, Regional Technical Director for DA Western Visayas and a program participant, the training offered valuable technical and personal lessons. She observed the implementation of smart-farming technologies from policy inception to practical submission, emphasizing that even simple automation systems, such as automatic irrigation and temperature monitoring, could significantly improve yields in the Philippine context.
Beyond Production: A Focus on Sustainable Lifestyles
The program’s impact extended beyond purely agricultural techniques. Participants also gained insights into the connection between agriculture and public health. One delegate remarked, “Korean cuisine uses so many kinds of vegetables. Compared to the generally sweet or salty food back home, I was amazed at how balanced and nutritious Korean meals are. It made me realize that agriculture isn’t just about production. It is also about promoting a healthier way of life.”
The training also spurred positive change at the cooperative level. A cooperative manager noted that the capacity building and project support had a “meaningful impact on our more than 800 farmer-members, their families, and the wider farming community we serve.”
Action Plans and Future Implementation
During the final session, local teams presented action plans for implementing smart-farming systems in Kalibo, bago, Patnongon, and Tigbauan. These plans encompassed strategies for greenhouse operation, crop selection, farmer training, and marketing, all designed to ensure long-term sustainability.
The next phase of the VEHCSA project will focus on constructing climate-responsive smart greenhouses in these areas, wich will also serve as training and demonstration centers for farmers. “We are now entering the implementation phase. Construction will begin soon,followed by training in greenhouse operation,crop management,and local market integration,” explained a KDS manager. “The goal is to establish a sustainable model that can be replicated in other regions.”
Funded by KOICA’s US$8-million ODA assistance,the VEHCSA project-implemented by DA Western Visayas in partnership with KDS,Kyungnong,and Agro Solution Korea (ASK)-runs from 2024 to 2027. It aims to enhance the productivity and profitability of high-value crops while establishing a foundation for climate-smart and market-oriented agriculture.
Upon their return, participants are expected to apply their newfound skills and knowledge, paving the way for a more innovative and collaborative future for Philippine agriculture. As one KDS representative concluded, “This training marks not the end, but the beginning. We look forward to seeing the seeds planted in Korea grow into tangible progress in the Philippines.”
