Forty-Six (46) enthusiastic young Filipino farmers from across the Philippines marked the successful conclusion of their 11-month internship under the Filipino Young Farmer Internship Program in Taiwan (Batch 4) during a closing ceremony held yesterday afternoon at the Howard International House Taipei. This impactful program is organized through the collaborative efforts of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), Department of Agriculture–Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI), Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), and Taiwan’s Ministry of Agriculture.

Atty. Cheloy E. Velicaria-Garafil, MNSA, Chairperson and Resident Representative of MECO, delivered her message of commendation for the young farmers for reaching this incredible milestone emphasizing their dedication, adaptability, resilience, and contribution to the Philippine-Taiwan agricultural exchange. She encouraged the graduates to return home and be the catalysts for change in Philippine agriculture.

Two outstanding interns shared insights on the successful acquisition of knowledge in modern growing techniques, sustainable practices, and strengthened Mandarin communication skills that helped them integrate into Taiwanese communities and farms.

Host farmers also shared their experience in working with the Filipino interns and hoped that they could stay longer in Taiwan to learn more.

Since its inception in 2021, the internship program has trained over 500 interns, equipping them with crucial technical skills and strengthening Taiwan–Philippine agricultural cooperation. Innovators such as those who joined the program (i.e. Jade Destasura of Batch 3) returned with grant-funded projects using organic techniques to boost local produce. Recipients of additional funding have launched initiatives such as bok choy organic farms in Cavite.

As they return home, the Batch 4 graduates are poised to introduce modern, sustainable farming methods, mentoring fellow young farmers, and leading local agricultural communities. Their experiences in Taiwan not only strengthen grassroots innovation but also deepen the enduring agricultural partnership between the Philippines and Taiwan. Through their continued efforts, these young farmers are set to cultivate a more progressive and globally connected Philippine agriculture sector.