Farmers in Aurora are moving beyond traditional farming into sustainable agribusiness with the Department of Agrarian Reform’s (DAR) Farm Business School, which combines modern farming techniques with business management training.

Thirty agrarian reform beneficiaries from the Samahan ng mga Settlers ng San Luis, Aurora, Inc. are participating in 17 learning sessions aimed at boosting productivity, developing market-ready products, and increasing income.

DAR Aurora Agrarian Reform Program Officer Ferdinand Poblete said the program guides farmers from producing raw materials to creating value-added products and strengthening their role in the local supply chain.

“The program equips farmers to form structured groups, enter marketing agreements, and access institutional buyers, ensuring long-term competitiveness and economic resilience,” Poblete said.

A key feature of the program is cluster formation, which organizes small-scale farmers into cooperative business units capable of meeting market demand, maintaining steady supply, and negotiating better with buyers.

The participants are currently in their fourth session and are expected to graduate on June 13, 2026. DAR plans to expand the program to reach more farmer organizations, equipping them with skills to operate sustainably and support Aurora’s agricultural development.

Through this initiative, DAR aims to nurture a new generation of agri-entrepreneurs who can strengthen local food security, increase household income, and drive inclusive growth in the province. (PIA 3-Aurora)