SAN LORENZO, GUIMARAS — Turning crops into cash is the next big step for young learners as the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Western Visayas launched the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) across 31 DepEd-run farm schools in the region.
On April 4, both agencies visited Catalino G. Nava Farm School (CGNFS) in Barangay Constancia, San Lorenzo, to better understand the school’s operations and identify ways to strengthen the entrepreneurial potential of students.
“Food is the most important among the basic needs of man,” explained Dr. Novelyn Vilchez, Schools Division Superintendent of Guimaras. “Farm schools are the answer. This initiative ensures food sustainability and accessibility for all.”
OIC-Assistant Regional Director Dr. Miguel Mac Aposin, representing DepEd Regional Director Dr. Ramir Uytico, emphasized the role of farm schools in improving livelihoods.
“These schools can produce food but they need partners like DTI to help convert harvests into innovative products that boost income and sustain families,” Aposin noted.
DTI Western Visayas Director Rachel Nufable echoed the commitment, highlighting the agency’s role in equipping learners with tools for success in business.
“By instilling entrepreneurial competencies early on, learners can navigate challenges, develop strategies, and apply marketing and production techniques suited to their level,” Nufable said.
Leonald Gonzaga, a student at CGNFS, shared how receiving a small plot of land from his parents became his starting point for applying classroom knowledge and earning additional income.
Ashley Faith Penpillo described her bold step into entrepreneurship. “Joining the program took me out of my comfort zone, but it connected me with others and expanded my vision—not just as a student but as a future businessperson,” she said.
Parents also see the benefits. Raquel Tacadao, whose children study at CGNFS, noted how the Home Garden Program transformed her children’s perspective.
“Farm schools teach our kids not just how to grow food, but how to market their produce. That’s real-life education,” Tacadao said.
Both DepEd and DTI aim to create a culture of innovation and resilience through the program, nurturing not just future farmers, but also future agri-entrepreneurs ready to thrive in the modern economy.