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Seedling Venture Flourishes in Batac City

Embracing Agriculture for a Brighter Future

From Career Shift to Agricultural Triumph In Batac City, Ilocos Norte, two young visionaries, Kevin Wayne Baga and Ana Cristina Guiang, have found their calling in the world of agriculture. Leaving their jobs in 2022, this dynamic duo, both 27 and 26 respectively, embarked on a journey that led them to establish KA-Bukid Propagation Farm. As licensed agriculturists, they recognized the need for high-quality seedlings to enhance local farmers' productivity and success.   The Genesis of KA-Bukid Propagation Farm Turning an Award into an Opportunity Their venture began with a remarkable win in the 2021 Young Farmers Challenge Fund program organized by the Department of Agriculture. Consequently, with the PHP100,000 grand prize, Kevin and Ana set up their seedling nursery on a 2,000-square-meter agricultural lot owned by Kevin’s grandmother. Strategically situated just a few meters along the Manila North Road in Sitio Nagabaan, their nursery quickly became a beacon of agricultural innovation.  

Backgrounds that Paved the Way

Leveraging Experience for Agricultural Advancement Before their foray into farming, Kevin contributed his skills to a private seed company and an agri-machinery firm, while Ana educated aspiring farmers through short-term agriculture courses offered by TESDA. Their combined experience and passion for agriculture drove them to take the bold step of quitting their jobs and fully dedicating themselves to seedling propagation, a decision they have never regretted.  

The Philosophy Behind the Farm

A Deep Commitment to Helping Farmers For Kevin and Ana, farming goes beyond profit-making; it's about nurturing a love for the job and aiding fellow farmers. They emphasize the importance of being hands-on in managing the farm and constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance profitability. Their holistic approach has not only brought success to their business but also made a positive impact on the local farming community.   Expanding Their Reach Networking and Social Media Savvy KA-Bukid Farm is more than just a local business; it's a growing network. The farm actively participates in agri-trade fairs and utilizes social media to showcase its diverse range of ready-to-plant seedlings, including tomatoes, eggplant, sweet and hot peppers, papaya, and fruit-bearing trees. Their business model accommodates reservations, pick-ups, and deliveries, meeting the demands of a modern market.   Making a Difference Beyond Business Providing Sustainable Livelihoods and Quality Products Ana proudly states that their business not only earns money but also supports farmers by ensuring their seedlings are pest-free and disease-resistant. They also provide sustainable livelihoods for their elderly kin, Norma Rayosa, and Romula Clemente, who find fulfillment in seedling propagation and vegetable harvesting.  

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Education

A Vision for Growth and Learning With increasing demand for quality seedlings in Ilocos, KA-Bukid Farm plans to expand its reach to nearby provinces like Ilocos Sur, Cagayan, and Apayao. Furthermore, the farm is evolving into a learning site for practical agriculture, with accreditation from the Agricultural Training Institute underway. In conclusion, the story of KA-Bukid Propagation Farm is a testament to the transformative power of passion, innovation, and hard work in the agricultural sector. Kevin and Ana's journey from regular jobs to successful entrepreneurs is inspiring, highlighting the potential of agriculture as a profitable and fulfilling career path.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article