Ilagan City, Isabela – Poultry farming is considered one of the most lucrative businesses in the country. What started out as a simple livelihood in backyards has evolved into an integrated and modern farming enterprise. This concept is what attracted Jonathan “Jong” Diaz to the industry.
Jong and his wife Myla run Top Jong Farm in this city, employing around 400 locals. The business started in 1994 when Jong first applied as a contract grower for San Miguel Corp. With little funding, he was able to build an initial housing for the poultry business, which only housed 5,000 chickens.
“At that time, the poultry business was booming, and I wanted to be a part of that,” said Jong, who was raring to expand his business but did not have enough capital.
He sought assistance from Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), which provided him the additional funding for the construction of a second building, and to purchase new equipment and machinery.
“I heard about the services of LANDBANK, on how they prioritize agricultural projects and businesses. I thought it was a shot at the moon, but I applied for a loan anyway. Thankfully, it was approved,” Jong said.
Through LANDBANK, Jong was able to build a second poultry house, which increased his production. From an initial 5,000 chickens, the farm was able to produce 11,500 chickens per cycle. After a few years, Jong was given a revolving credit line for the improvement of his poultry breeding facilities.
“By supporting and promoting local businesses, LANDBANK helps generate more employment, further boosting local economic growth,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia C. Borromeo.
Eventually, Jong was able to modernize his farm through a tunnel-ventilated system, a climate-controlled system where the temperature of the poultry houses is maintained.
Currently, the farm has three additional poultry buildings – all of which are financed by LANDBANK. Each building houses up to 40,000 heads and is equipped with a state-of-the-art ventilation system. The farm has a relatively fast harvest time that only takes 33 days and follows strict production and sanitation processes.
“LANDBANK’s services are better as compared to other banks. They have lower interest rates, and that is a big help for us small business owners, especially for those who are just starting out,” Jong added.
Top Jong Farm was once again awarded by San Miguel Corp. as the Top 1 Poultry Grower in Northeast Luzon for 2020. This recognition is given to contract growers for their outstanding performance and good practices – an award that the farm has consistently won through the years.
As his business continues to grow, Jong believes in paying it forward, providing opportunities for others so they may also grow. His farm has generated 400 jobs for the residents for the raising and harvesting of chicken, and cleaning of houses.
“The opportunity that LANDBANK has given me has also benefitted the farmers here in our community,” he quipped.
With LANDBANK’s support, Jong hopes to build two more additional buildings within the year, and eventually, start marketing organic fertilizers to farmers in their area.