Albuera: San Miguel Corporation (SMC) has announced the expansion of its Backyard Bukid initiative to nine sites across the Philippines, marking its first entry into the Visayas region. This development, detailed in a recent news release, signifies the project's growth beyond its original urban farming model, aiming to bolster food security and provide supplemental livelihoods within local communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Backyard Bukid program was initially launched in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic to support utility and security personnel stranded at San Miguel's headquarters in Mandaluyong City. The initiative has since evolved into a community-based organic farming program, implemented in various areas through San Miguel Foundation, Inc. (SMFI).
The newest site, launched earlier this year by San Miguel Foods (SMF) at Antipolo Elementary School in Albuera, Leyte, is notable for being SMC's first Backyard Bukid in the Visayas. This site, located near a Magnolia Poultry Processing Plant, operates with the participation of 25 community farmers, including parents, barangay officials, and school staff, supporting health, nutrition, and livelihood.
Community farmer Jonathan Dimailig expressed pride in the teamwork and skills developed through the program, which has fostered a strong sense of community and productivity. The sentiment was echoed during a harvesting ceremony at the new farm, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the initiative.
In March, another site was inaugurated at Soyung Elementary School in Echague, Isabela. This expansion in Northern Luzon features an all-women farming group, reinforcing SMC's commitment to women's empowerment, especially during Women's Month. SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang emphasized the significance of the project in supporting women's roles both within families and the broader community.
The expansion brings the total number of active Backyard Bukid farms to nine, including those at SMC's Head Office Complex in Mandaluyong City and other locations across the country. Collectively, these farms have produced over 4,300 kilograms of assorted crops and generated additional income for 155 active employees and community farmers.
The farms cultivate a variety of leafy vegetables, salad herbs, and fruit-bearing crops, such as lettuce, bok choy, kangkong, eggplant, and banana. In the months ahead, San Miguel Foods plans to establish additional Backyard Bukid sites in public elementary schools in Bulacan, Iloilo, and Misamis Oriental.
Furthermore, SMC's San Miguel Properties is preparing to launch a community-managed farm in Barangay Tagabuli, Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur, which is expected to become a fully-fledged Backyard Bukid by year-end.
The program, which began at SMC's Head Office Compound in Mandaluyong City, ensures participants receive training in organic farming methods, supported by San Miguel Foundation partner, SEED Philippines. Farmers employ sustainable practices using natural alternatives to chemical pesticides and fertilizers, maintaining crop health while preserving the environment.
Ang highlighted the initiative's success in fostering teamwork and resilience among volunteers, reaffirming SMC's commitment to replicating the program in other areas. The goal is to provide healthier food options, additional income, and transform idle land into spaces for learning and sustainable livelihoods, ultimately strengthening communities.
