Tagaytay City—The SVD Laudato Si' Farm was featured on the Masaganang Buhay TV program at TV5’s OnePH Cignal TV Channel 1. The episode, which was simulcast on Radyo Singko 92.3 News FM, was aired last July 16, 2023, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM.
Rev. Fr. Samuel “Sam” Naceno-Agcaracar, SVD, Executive Director of the SVD Farm and Rector of the SVD-Tagaytay Community, was interviewed by "Magsasakang Reporter" Mer Layson. During the episode, Fr. Sam discussed the Farm’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and its vision of fostering encounters with God, nature, and people.
Fr. Sam shared insights about the SVD Farm's cultivation practices and emphasized the importance of sustainability. He highlighted the use of organic fertilizers, such as vermicast donated by the Department of Agriculture, and the recycling of spoilage to create their own organic fertilizers. He also discussed the farm's dual approach to farming, combining conventional and hydroponic techniques to meet the growing demand for their produce.
When asked about the SVD Farm's income generation, Fr. Sam highlighted that the farm refrains from charging parking or entrance fees as a gesture of gratitude to their supporters. Acknowledging that the development of the farm was made possible through benefactors and partnerships, he stated that return on investment (ROI) is a secondary priority for the farm. He also expressed gratitude for the significant role the Department of Agriculture played in supporting the farm’s initiatives.
Fr. Sam further discussed the SVD Farm's commitment to sustainability, based on six pillars: sustainable and organic farming, sustainable energy (with half of the farm being powered by solar energy), sustainable water (harvesting rainwater for irrigation), sustainable livelihood (providing livelihood opportunities for employees), sustainable knowledge (embracing and sharing new agricultural practices), and sustainable lifestyle (promoting responsible and eco-friendly living).
The SVD Farm aims to create a space where visitors can encounter God, appreciate nature, and connect with others, said Fr. Sam. He also emphasized the importance of introducing young generations to the farm, encouraging parents to bring their children to experience the beauty of the environment rather than simply frequenting shopping malls.
During the interview, Fr. Sam also discussed the SVD Farm's future plans, including its desire to contribute to addressing the challenges of food production and global warming. Fr. Sam highlighted the need for collaboration among the Church, government, NGOs, and other organizations to work together for the environment. The farm aspires to achieve zero waste management, ensuring that no resources go to waste and that everything is used for more meaningful purposes.
Despite facing financial challenges during the pandemic, Fr. Sam said that the SVD Farm emerged as a miracle project. It started with a six-hectare idle property, which has now expanded to include a restaurant, chapel, retreat house, and leisure areas, among other sections.
Fr. Sam concluded by expressing his belief in the resilience of those who persevere in farming and the abundance that can be found through dedication to the land. He urged action to protect agricultural lands from being transformed for other purposes, as the future of the younger generation is at stake.
Masaganang Buhay's episode about the SVD Laudato Si' Farm, which featured a tour of the Farm’s facilities, products, and organic farming practices, can be viewed via the One PH YouTube page through the following link:
MASAGANANG BUHAY | JULY 16, 2023 EPISODE
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For reservations and other information, including ways to support and connect with the SVD Farm, contact us through:
📞 0905-106-5499
📧 contact@svdlaudatosifarmfoundation.org.