Ten years ago, Socorro, Oriental Mindoro Municipal Agricultural and Fishery Council (MAFC) Chairperson Nelson Mangako left Batangas and moved to Oriental Mindoro with a clear goal—to become an agripreneur. Little did he know that his passion for farming would lead him to become a champion for fellow farmers in the region.

Upon settling in Socorro, Oriental Mindoro, Mangako started raising poultry, native pigs, and cows. More than just building his livelihood, he extended his efforts to his neighbors, allowing them to take care of his animals, fostering a spirit of communal farming. The Municipality of Socorro, now recognized as the main supplier of livestock in Oriental Mindoro, contributes about 50% of the province’s total requirement—a testament to the thriving agricultural landscape he helped nurture.

Nelson’s leadership and advocacy quickly gained recognition. He co-founded Sandigan ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura sa Kanayunan (Sama Ka Naman) in 2017 and served as its secretary. In 2021, he spearheaded the establishment of the Animal Research of Oriental Mindoro Association (AROMA), an accredited civil society organization based in Socorro.

His involvement deepened when he joined the Municipal Agricultural and Fishery Council (MAFC) of Socorro and was eventually elected as Chairperson in 2022. A year later, he was appointed as the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council (RAFC) of MIMAROPA’s Sectoral Chairperson for Livestock.

Through his role in the AFC, Nelson gained insight into government programs and projects. As MAFC Chairperson,  ice of local farmers, bridging the gap between the public and private sectors. His advocacy went beyond policy resolutions—he and his fellow AFC members played a crucial role during the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak. Their resolution led to the Provincial and Regional AFCs  of livestock produce, ensuring fairness in the market.

He was also a key figure in consultations with Socorro’s annual investment plan and other agricultural activities. He has consistently pointed out that livestock and poultry sectors remain underprioritized, as the budget allocation does not fully support their development.

Nelson’s leadership has brought tangible benefits to local farmers. Under his guidance, AROMA became a beneficiary of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) KADIWA Program, receiving a truck in 2023. Additionally, PhilMech, a DA-attached agency, provided a harvester and water pump, further supporting agricultural productivity.

However, challenges persist. The DA’s INSPIRE Program, meant to assist hog raisers affected by ASF, failed to reach Socorro’s farmers, leaving 80-90% of them struggling to recover. Nelson continues to advocate for government intervention, urging authorities to provide much-needed support to affected hog farmers so they can rise again despite the setbacks caused by the ASF and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mangako’s transition into farming evolved from a career shift into a lifelong commitment of uplifting the agricultural sector. His journey is a testament to the power of dedication, community-driven initiatives, and relentless advocacy. As he continues to champion farmers’ welfare and the sustainability of the livestock industry, his story stands as an inspiration to those striving to make a difference in the agricultural sector. | Junry Danila