DAGUPAN CITY (PIA) -- Twenty-five individuals from Rosales, Pangasinan are poised to embark on a journey towards a better and greener future in agricultural development through the Kabalikat Sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP) of the SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI).

After completing a 14-week training program, these individuals, known as KSK-SAP Batch 299, now possess essential skills and knowledge in rural agriculture.

They immersed themselves in mastering land preparation, precise sowing methods, and the craft of harvesting.

Aligned with the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) mandate, DA Region 1 Agriculturist David John Rondal said the graduates are now crucial partners of the agency in ensuring the production of food that meets public safety standards.

SM City Rosales Assistant Mall Manager Chao Chua explained that the KSK-SAP was formed with a vision and mission centered on providing livelihoods to the participants, equipping them with modern farming techniques to guarantee the production of high-quality crops.

“This not only resolves the global issues on food security but also creates an extra source of income for their households through the sale of produce,” she added.

This approach also enables the graduates to make substantial contributions to the overall economic growth of the province.

Meanwhile, Rosales Mayor William Cezar said the livelihood program is a huge thing for the farmers of town as they have long aspired to receive education and training in modern farming practices.

He expressed his aspiration to position the municipality as a primary importer of vegetables to Manila and SM Hypermarkets in nearby cities and towns.

He stated that the town has a vast land area of 6,639 hectares, making it ideal for cultivating a variety of vegetables.

“Through the education and experience provided by SMFI’s KSK-SAP, especially in the use of modern technologies in agricultural production, I have come to appreciate the challenges of farming. I have realized the vital role farmers play – without them, there would be no food on our tables. So, let us not underestimate them,” 35-year-old Aladino Tagalicud Jr, said during their Moving Forward Ceremony held on April 12 at the SM City Rosales. (JCR/MJTAB/JCDR/APG/PIA Pangasinan)