On July 14, seventeen young Filipino agripreneurs had strengthened their knowledge and skills in modern agribusiness after completing a five-day innovation boot camp in Singapore under the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) Program.
The training was organized by the DA’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS) in collaboration with the Philippine Agriculture Office in Bangkok and Republic Polytechnic Singapore.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to preparing the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs. He emphasized that developing their skills today will help create a more productive agriculture sector, stronger rural communities, and a more food-secure Philippines.
Republic Polytechnic also pledged to continue mentoring the participants through online coaching after the Singapore immersion program.
Throughout the program, the delegates explored Singapore’s advanced agrifood industry, learning about smart farming, food innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable agriculture through lectures, field visits, and hands-on training sessions.
The participants showcased their business ideas during the Final Business Pitch and Demo Day before venture capitalists, agritech partners, and incubation managers from Republic Polytechnic.
Bluecrust Processed Food Manufacturing from Central Visayas won the top award for its value-added seafood products. Cher Cacao Products Manufacturing from the Negros Island Region earned first runner-up honors with its artisanal cacao and chocolate products, while Egginear Agri-Poultry Solutions from Mimaropa placed second runner-up for its integrated poultry production system.
Tiu Laurel added that the government’s vision is to develop a new generation of Filipino farmers and agripreneurs who are equipped with innovation, technology, and an entrepreneurial mindset to lead the future of agriculture.
Aside from the competition, the delegation also met with Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Medardo Macaraig to discuss ways to enhance the global competitiveness of Philippine agriculture /Elijah Orencia
