TaiwanICDF Supports Philippine University in Training Young Farmers: Collaborating for a Resilient Agricultural Future

The Taiwan Technical Mission (TTM) in the Philippines is working with Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University - North La Union Campus to train eight exceptional students in advanced agricultural techniques.

The training program, which began in May, is being held at the TTM’s demonstration farm in Tarlac City, Luzon Island, and comprises two courses: Greenhouse Management and Application, and Becoming a Plant Doctor. The program combines theory and hands-on fieldwork to introduce advanced agricultural technologies and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies used by farmers in Taiwan, helping students gain practical experience and build a solid foundation for future careers in agriculture.

From June 23 to 27, TaiwanICDF Secretary General Dr. Yu-Lin Huang visited the Philippines and personally met with the eight trainees. During the visit, he encouraged the students, saying:“You are the future of your country. Without young, passionate, and skilled agricultural professionals like you, food security will face serious challenges. The world needs your hands, your minds, and your dedication. Keep learning, keep growing, and always take pride in being part of the backbone of agriculture.”

According to TTM Leader Dominick Lee, the TTM has been promoting Taiwan’s successful farmers’ association model at the Tarlac demonstration farm since the farm’s establishment on November 15, 2021. These efforts have fostered local agricultural clustering, resource integration, and strengthened community resilience, as well as disaster risk reduction.

The cooperation with the university on agricultural training is also a key component of the Agri-Cluster Consolidation and Cooperation Project in the Philippines, which is aimed at enhancing agricultural extension efficiency and attracting more young people into farming. Looking ahead, the TTM will continue to collaborate with local universities to expand youth farmer training through on-the-job training (OJT) and demonstration farm programs. Together, these initiatives aim to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural development system and contribute to food security and social prosperity.