The provincial government of Bohol is launching a comprehensive modernization drive to attract young people to agriculture, addressing the critical challenge of an aging farming population where the average farmer is 59 to 60 years old.
Provincial Agriculturist Liza M. Quirog said the program centers on mechanization and technology integration to transform farming into a profitable and appealing career for the next generation.
“More efforts on agriculture moving forward will be doubled compared to the previous term’s effort,” Quirog said, citing increased government commitment under Gov. Aristotle C. Aumentado’s administration.
The modernization strategy emerged from a recent strategic refresh conference where officials formulated three major result areas: implementing a cluster approach with integrated crop specialization, focusing on value-chain interventions, and encouraging youth participation in agriculture.
Quirog, working with Assistant Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Larry M. Pamugas, is strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders including the Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Training Institute, Department of Education, Bohol Island State University, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and local government units.
Youth organizations including 4-H Clubs, Sangguniang Kabataan, and community-based groups are being positioned as key partners in promoting agricultural innovations through advocacy, implementation and community mobilization.
The province aims to redefine farming’s image beyond food security to include entrepreneurship and profitable livelihoods.
Officials plan to integrate modern technologies, support agri-preneurship and promote value-adding practices to dispel perceptions of agriculture offering marginal economic returns.
Aumentado has consistently directed that agricultural programs must demonstrate profitability to attract young Boholanos to the sector.
The plan aligns with Bohol’s status as a UNESCO Global Geopark, where youth-led, technology-driven farming plays a crucial role in sustainable land use, natural resource conservation and building an adaptive agricultural sector.
Regular coordination meetings, joint planning sessions and collaborative engagements are being conducted to align efforts, share resources and establish foundations for future programs empowering young Boholanos in modern farming.
The provincial government envisions transforming Bohol’s agricultural landscape through youth innovation, improved productivity and stronger food security foundations, positioning the sector for sustained growth and development.