PP Majella Tumangan-Villaroman
RC Manila 101
“Let’s keep the momentum going and let’s serve to change lives!” This is DG Robert Koa’s bugle call at the launch of the first ROTARY AGRIPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM on August 11. He references the Urban Farming Initiative for food security, building community rapport, and stimulating local economy while increasing social bonds. His drum roll, “Let us materialize everything that we learn from the AGRIPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM for the benefit of our communities”.
Also at the launch, Department of Agriculture Secretary William Dar relayed that Urban Farming has long been in existence but treated more like a hobby for extra source of food and income. Yet, it’s only in recent times because of the pandemic that its importance is recognized as the most practical way to address climate change and food security. Secretary William Dar adds that what elevates RI District 3810 Urban Farming Initiative in the agricultural Philippine development is its significant role and potential to address these disruptive forces in climate change, food security, nutrition, employment and the economy. With 100% support, Secretary Dar is looking forward to the fruition of the AGRIPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM while forging together in achieving shared goals.”
The ROTARY AGRIPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM is the first of its kind in the history of Rotary in the Philippines. District Urban Farming Initiative Chairman Majella Tumangan-Villaroman, RC Manila 101 says, “This initiative enables Rotary District 3810 to be the first to LEAD, PROMOTE and PILOT a public private partnership in Urban Farming in Rotary in collaboration with key government agencies in the Philippines”.
Go Negosyo Mentors and industry experts are Mentors for the Rotary Agripreneurship Program. At the launch, Mentor Glen Villaroman of accelSPROUT Corporation and Consultant to Secretary William Dar discussed in Module 1 an Entrepreneurial Mindset and Values of an Agripreneur. Mentor Michael Caballes, President of Bukid Amara discussed in Module 2 Urban Farming and Farm Operations, on how a clear vision and goals for an agribusiness venture is the key to successful farm operations.
The Urban Farming Committee with Host Club RC Manila 101 and co-hosts, RC Archangel Premiere, RC Imus East, RC Cavite Centro and RC Mamburao presents the 3 Part Rotary Agripreneurship Program on Aug 11, Aug 13 and Aug 18.
All together, with a steady group of 50 participants that stayed from start to end, a new GREEN OF THE CROP movement by Rotarians is preparing to serve and to Change Lives!