In the heart of Guimaras where agriculture is the backbone of the community, two extraordinary women–both healthy and beautiful in their golden years- shine as symbols of hope and resilience for farmers in their respective communities. Their path to farming and leadership is a powerful testament to their unwavering perseverance and deep passion for their communities.
One is Leticia G. Barba, who has spent nearly 14 years in the Municipal Agricultural and Fishery Council (MAFC) of Nueva Valencia and the Provincial AFC of Guimaras, working her way from a member to becoming the MAFC Chairperson. The other is Erlinda E. Azuela, a lifelong farmer who has been at the forefront of agricultural activities for almost two decades as part of her partnership with the Agriculture Office and MAFC of Jordan, Guimaras.
Leticia’s Journey: From Overseas Worker to Agricultural Advocate
Barba’s path to agriculture was far from linear. In 1986, she worked as an Overseas Filipino Worker, only to return to the Philippines when Iraq invaded Kuwait. After a brief stint working in Manila, life took a turn when she married a seafarer at the age of 35. Returning to Guimaras, she and her husband invested in land and built a life rooted in farming.
Leticia was introduced to PAFC in 2008 through her nephew, who worked at the Guimaras Provincial Agriculture Office. Reluctant at first, she attended training sessions and soon realized her potential. With her hands-on experience in farming—handling fertilizers and organic farming—she found herself deeply immersed in agricultural development. Moreover, her leadership skills did not go unnoticed, and she was soon tapped to take on bigger roles within the AFC.
Erlinda’s Journey: The Humble Beginnings of Building a Cooperative
What started as a simple gathering of farmers in Sitio Ambak-Tubig has since flourished into a fully functioning cooperative supported by both local and international aid. At the heart of this transformation, Azuela’s dedication and leadership have not only steered the organization through challenges but also shaped the future of farming in their municipality.
By 2001, the cooperative was officially formed, and Erlinda took on the role of chairperson. Over the years, she was also elected to lead the Bugnay Farmers Association (BUFA) and later became a Local Farmer Technician, working closely with the local government unit (LGU) of Jordan to provide training and resources for her fellow farmers.
From an initial 30 members, the cooperative has grown steadily, providing essential support to all farmers in Barangay Bugnay. Through the Small Island Agricultural Support Services (SMILE) Program, they received vegetable seedlings and native chickens, marking the beginning of a self-sustaining agricultural initiative. With the backing of their barangay and international partners, they laid the foundation for what is now a thriving cooperative.
A Voice for Farmers, A Personal Mission and Legacy: Women in Action
Leticia’s advocacy for farmers is deeply personal. Having supported her family as the head of the household before marriage, she understands the struggles of those who work tirelessly to feed others yet often remain marginalized. Her role in the AFC allowed her to fight for fair treatment and ensure that government assistance reaches the farmers who need it most. “If a farmer is deprived of benefits, I get angry,” she admits. “Even if I don’t receive it, I will fight for them.”
Her leadership extends beyond AFC, as she holds key positions in multiple organizations, including the Tamukol-Ilaya Irrigators Association, Igang Cluster Farmers Association, and the Rural Improvement Club (RIC). These platforms allow her to unify efforts and push for better policies that benefit the agricultural sector.
Erlinda’s unwavering commitment to agriculture is fueled by years of training and hands-on experience. “I attended many seminars and training sessions, which helped me gain the skills and knowledge needed to support my fellow farmers,” she says.
Despite her leadership in agriculture, none of her ten children followed in her footsteps. “They chose to join the Marines instead of studying agriculture,” she notes with a mix of understanding and concern. She acknowledges the broader issue of declining interest in farming among the youth. But Erlinda remains hopeful that awareness campaigns and agricultural programs will inspire the next generation to take up the mantle.
Overcoming Challenges in Agricultural Programs and Policies
Despite its importance, MAFC Nueva Valencia remains an unfunded entity, making it difficult for members to attend meetings and implement projects. Leticia has tirelessly lobbied for financial support, proposing that the local government provide at least Php 300 in allowances to cover travel costs for farmer representatives. Her efforts have sparked discussions within municipal councils, and a resolution is in progress to address this concern.
Her advocacy has also led to the passage of an organic agriculture policy in Nueva Valencia, which awaits funding for implementation. Once in motion, the initiative is set to receive one million pesos, with an additional three million pesos to follow.
On the other hand, Erlinda’s cooperative has received valuable support in the form of agricultural equipment, including pumps, dryers, harvesters, rice mills, and tractors. “These were given to us through our Municipal Agriculture Officer, with some proposals submitted through MAFC,” she explains.
MAFC Jordan plays a crucial role in policymaking, holding quarterly meetings to discuss pressing issues in agriculture. “We propose programs and projects to the LGU, ensuring that farmers’ needs are met,” she adds. These discussions cover everything from pest control to mechanization and training opportunities, aimed at improving the productivity and livelihood of local farmers.
Looking Ahead, A Future Rooted in Agriculture
For Leticia, leadership is not about recognition but about making tangible changes in the lives of farmers. She remains committed to her work, ensuring that agricultural policies are effectively implemented and that farmers are given the opportunities they deserve.
Her journey from an OFW to a leading voice in agriculture serves as an inspiration. Through her dedication, she has transformed not just her own life but also the lives of her fellow farmers within her community, proving that true leadership is born out of service and passion. As she continues to push for reforms and empower communities, Leticia stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of Filipino farmers.
For Erlinda, through years of perseverance and community effort, her cooperative has built a legacy of resilience and progress. For her, farming is not just a livelihood—it’s a mission. “Farming helped me educate my 10 children. I continue to plant vegetables and raise livestock because I believe in the power of agriculture,” she says.
Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and the transformative power of community-driven agriculture. As the cooperative continues to grow, it stands as a testament to what can be achieved when farmers come together with a shared vision of progress and sustainability. | Junry Danila
