Albay Launches New Training Hub for Young Farmers
LEGAZPI CITY – Construction has started on a new facility worth PHP3.5 million designed to boost the interest, productivity, and active participation of young farmers in Albay. This new training hub aims to empower the next generation of agricultural entrepreneurs in the region.
According to local agricultural officials, the Young Farmers Hub, spanning 100 square meters, is funded through the Young Farmers Challenge Program. It will serve as a vital community resource for members of the Albay Young Farmers Organization (AYFO) and winners of the challenge, providing them with access to essential tools and training.
Facility Features and Timeline
Lovella Guarain, spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture in Bicol, shared that construction is underway and equipment procurement is in progress. “The hub will operate as a community service center for agricultural entrepreneurs and a training venue for both AYFO members and interested residents of Albay,” she said. Completion is targeted for January 2026.
The facility will include a dedicated training room, a processing and packaging center, and a showcase area for products developed by the challenge winners. This multi-purpose hub will support production, processing, and post-harvest activities, enhancing the entire value chain for young farmers.
Existing Support Centers in the Region
Besides this new hub, officials noted that Albay and surrounding areas already host facilities that empower youth in agriculture. These include a processing center in Camalig focused on feed production, food preservation, and kurakding production, as well as the Young Farmers Technology Incubation Center located in Labo, Camarines Norte.
Impact on the Young Farming Community
Joshua Barcelon, executive director of AYFO, emphasized the significance of the new hub, stating it will provide a shared service facility to help young farmers scale their businesses. Out of more than 2,000 youth members, 52 winners of the Young Farmers Challenge with established enterprises will directly benefit from the hub’s resources.
Community members expressed optimism that this investment will inspire more youth to engage in agriculture, boosting local productivity and innovation in the sector. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize farming and support sustainable livelihoods in the region.
For more news and updates on young farmers in Albay, visit Filipinokami.com.
