PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI), have equipped farmer associations in Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Davao del Sur with essential digital tools through the FarmTech program.
A tech-driven farmers training kit designed to empower farmer groups and agri-coops in their digital literacy training programs, FarmTech is a key component of the Digital Farmers Program (DFP) which aims to bridge the digital divide in rural areas. The initiative equips farmer groups with comprehensive digital tools, including tablets, smartphones, portable projectors, sound systems, and digital learning materials.
Wilmar Ompoc, President of the Sto. Niño Organic Rice Farmers in Malaybalay City, expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating, “Before, our equipment was difficult to transport to the farming communities. Now, with the portable and rechargeable projector and sound system, and other equipment in the FarmTech kit, it will be much easier to carry and use as we train our fellow farmers on digital tools.”
Loida Magoncia, Agricultural Technologist of the Davao del Sur Provincial Agriculturist Office (PAGRO), emphasized the significant impact of FarmTech on the region’s agricultural sector. “This initiative empowers our farmers to adopt innovative technologies, leading to increased efficiency and productivity,” she said.
DFP is part of PLDT and Smart Communities, the shared value program of the PLDT Group that aims to bridge the digital divide by leveraging technology as a transformative tool. The program recently marked its 21st year of championing growth through strategic partnerships in the areas of digital wellness, disaster resilience, education, inclusion, and livelihood.
PLDT and Smart’s efforts to promote inclusive technologies that boost livelihood opportunities among farmers and fisherfolk highlight the Group’s support for the government’s overall digitalization thrust. This is also in line with the PLDT Group’s efforts to help the country achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), especially UNSDG No.1 (No Poverty) and No.8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
