Farmer Features | Global Seed Savers

Supporting Farmers Through Seed Sovereignty in Bayawan City

Sep 12, 2024 | Activities, Farmer Features, Newsletters, Other Partners, Programs, Seed School, Stories from the Field, Uncategorized

Global Seed Savers recently partnered with Bayawan City’s Office of Farmers, Provincial Resources and Agriculture Bureau (OFPRAB) to host a transformative Community Learning and Awareness on Seed Sovereignty (CLASS) event. Held at the City Cooperative and Manpower Development Office, this event brought together 36 participants, with City Agriculturist Ken Artes leading the way. Mr. Artes emphasized the importance of supporting farmers to break free from dependence on seeds provided by the Department of Agriculture, allowing them greater autonomy over their crops and seed access. This message resonated strongly with participants, and by the end of the program, 20 individuals were inspired to continue their seed-saving journey by enrolling in Seed School 1.

The event marked an important step towards long-term seed sovereignty in Bayawan City. Mr. Artes laid out ambitious plans, including drafting an ordinance to establish seed libraries in every barangay and integrating seed-saving into existing farm schools, which are in partnership with DepEd.

The seed libraries will be placed in the Agricultural Development Centers, which serve as both production areas and educational hubs.

This forward-thinking approach will ensure that future generations, starting at the school level, learn the value of seed saving, creating a culture of self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship among young Filipinos.

The lessons from this event highlighted how the culture of dependency fostered by the standardized purchasing of seeds has limited farmers’ autonomy and harmed the environment. Mr. Artes’ leadership demonstrates the vital role local government officials can play in supporting seed sovereignty and improving the living conditions of their communities. His proactive approach rekindles hope that government can indeed work for the people, and with GSS’ ongoing support, we are building a movement that prioritizes farmer justice, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of indigenous agricultural knowledge across the Philippines.

Bayawan

CA, Sr. Agriculturist & GSSP Team

City Agriculturist giving his welcoming remark

Prepared seeds for Bayawan

Seed School 1 with the Benguet Association of Seed Savers (BASS)

Sep 12, 2024 | Activities, BASS, Farmer Features, Newsletters, Other Partners, Programs, Seed School, Stories from the Field, Uncategorized

Global Seed Savers and partners Benguet Association of Seed Savers (BASS) recently hosted Seed School 1 at the OMAG in Tublay, Benguet. The program aimed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed for effective seed saving, from understanding the life cycle of plants to mastering seed storage and quality control. Through hands-on learning and community engagement, the participants gained a deeper appreciation for the critical role of seeds in promoting food security, biodiversity, and sustainable agricultural systems.

A key highlight of the training was the active participation of nine experienced BASS members, who not only updated their own knowledge but also mentored new participants during practical sessions. Their involvement demonstrated the power of peer-to-peer learning, as they shared valuable insights and techniques from their years of experience in seed saving.

This collaboration fostered a sense of community among the participants, further strengthening their commitment to seed sovereignty.

The lessons from this event underscored the importance of continued learning and skill-sharing within seed-saving communities. By supporting both new and seasoned members, GSSP and BASS are cultivating a movement that prioritizes resilience, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of local seed varieties for future generations. As these participants move forward, they are taking vital steps toward building a self-sustaining, seed-secure future in Benguet.

CLASS with CROPO and Partners Good Food Community (GFC)

Apr 30, 2024 | Activities, Farmer Features, Other Partners, Programs, Project Update, Projects, Seed Library, Seed School, Uncategorized

In the heart of the Kalahi Mountains, the Global Seed Savers (GSS) team, alongside the Good Food Community (GFC), recently embarked on a transformative journey with the Chico River Organic Producers’ Organization (CROPO). The goal was to foster a deep understanding and appreciation for seed sovereignty as a cornerstone of food sovereignty.

During the immersive Community Learning and Awareness on Seed Sovereignty (CLASS) program, CROPO members were not just attendees but active participants in shaping the future of their food systems. Through engaging lectures, they explored topics ranging from the global seed situation to the practicalities of saving seeds within their unique agricultural context.

The impact was profound. As discussions unfolded, participants were challenged to reflect on their own role in seed preservation and food security. Questions like “Why save seeds?” sparked lively debates, while the Open Forum provided a platform for voices often unheard to express their concerns and aspirations. This initiative wasn’t just about learning; it was about a community taking charge of its seed and food sovereign future.

Planting Seeds of Knowledge!

Mar 29, 2024 | Activities, Farmer Features, Programs, Seed Library, Seed School, Uncategorized

We’re thrilled to share an exciting update from Global Seed Savers, where we’ve been busy planting the seeds of knowledge through our recent programs. In collaboration with the Partnership for Indigenous Knowledge Philippines (PIKP), we hosted a dynamic two-day workshop on our Community Learning and Awareness on Seed Sovereignty (CLASS) alongside Seed School 1 – Basic Seed Saving Course.

Led by the passionate facilitators Sarah Sabado, Elizabeth Martin, and Ding Fuellos, this two-day training was more than just a workshop; it was a transformative experience! Participants dived into the heart of seed sovereignty, learning not just how to save seeds but why it’s crucial. We explored the beauty of naming and describing seeds within cultural and linguistic contexts, highlighting the importance of these practices in preserving our agricultural heritage.

Our partnership with PIKP has been instrumental in amplifying our impact. Together, we’ve created a nurturing environment where participants can connect with their Indigenous knowledge and local realities, inspiring them to become advocates for sustainable food systems. Our curriculum, divided into three engaging modules, has sparked a newfound passion for seed saving among participants.

In Module 1: Participants gain insights into the local seed situation, seed security, and Indigenous food systems, fostering a connection with their cultural heritage and community practices.

In Module 2: Why Save Seeds?, the focus shifts towards understanding the intrinsic value of seed saving in enhancing crop diversity and ensuring food security.

Module 3: Seed Science equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills essential for effective seed collection, preservation, and sharing, inspiring them to become stewards of agricultural resilience and biodiversity conservation.

From understanding the local seed situation to the science behind seed saving, we’ve supported our community with the tools and knowledge needed to cultivate resilience and promote biodiversity.

Through these initiatives, we aim to not only disseminate knowledge but also inspire action and foster a community of seed savers dedicated to preserving agricultural heritage and ensuring a sustainable future!

Participants

Manang Elizabeth leading the course

Participants

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Whole group at our two-day training

Cultivating Impact through Inventory Innovation!

Mar 6, 2024 | Activities, Farmer Features, Programs, Seed Library, Uncategorized

Global Seed Savers recently embarked on a series of seed inventory initiatives to conduct inventories in Cebu City, Catmon, Aloguinsan, and Babag. Led by Sweetie Maurillo, these efforts are vital in ensuring the availability and effective management of seeds for agricultural purposes among all partner farmers. The inventories serve as benchmarks and facilitate seamless access and optimal utilization of seeds.

Through these initiatives, valuable lessons have been learned about the importance of conducting seed trials and germinating seed stocks to rejuvenate and replenish the inventory, maintaining high-quality seeds in our library. Seeds are not mere items for display or collection; their primary purpose lies in their ability to germinate, grow, and ultimately produce plants. By prioritizing their utility and ensuring they are actively used for cultivation rather than just stored, we maximize their value and potential impact.

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Local policy support is crucial for promoting the conservation of heritage crops, while community engagement fosters collaboration among farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders. Access to resources, such as quality seeds and agricultural inputs, is essential for cultivating heritage crops.

Seed inventory helps in resource planning for future planting seasons by ensuring the availability of a sufficient quantity and variety of seeds, thus promoting crop diversity and resilience. It also helps mitigate risks associated with crop failures, pests, diseases, and unforeseen events, ensuring continuity in agricultural production.

Education, capacity building, and support of farmers in seed production are key aspects to reduce reliance on external seed sources and promote self-sufficiency. Lobbying for government support and funding toward seed-saving initiatives and conservation programs is also essential for long-term sustainability.

We are looking forward to continuing to add to our seed inventory and support our local seed libraries with needed seeds!

Aloguinsan

Dito’s Farm

Aloguinsan

Dito’s Farm Seed Library

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Cafei Seed Labels

Seeds

seeds

Aloguinsan Farm

Cebu City Seeds

Exploring Growth Through Farm Visits!

Dec 14, 2023 | Activities, Farmer Features, Other Partners, Projects, Seed Library, Stories from the Field, Uncategorized

Our recent visit to Anita’s farm (BASS President) in Daclan, accompanied by Sarah and Manag Elizabeth, was an impactful on-site engagement.

During our time at Anita’s farm, she generously offered her farm as a potential seed production site for GSS. Her eagerness to facilitate GSS’ seed production and interest in joining GSS’ seed production team reflects the transformative impact these farm visits foster. Farm visits not only build partnerships but also serve as a catalyst for community-led initiatives.

Our other recent farm visits to Manang Nora’s Farm in Tili, Shilan; Pastor Jun’s Farm in Ambassador, Tublay; Manong Roger’s Farm in Tudayana, Tublay; and Philip Boaz’s Farm in Talingsuroy, La Trinidad highlights inspiring narratives of community dedication and resilience.

Manang Nora, a new BASS member and practicing organic farmer, showcased her commitment to organic farming by establishing an improvised seed library. Despite the challenging terrain at Pastor Jun’s farm, his dedication was evident. Manong Roger, new BASS member, substantial seed production area and newly initiated seed library reflected a flourishing commitment to seed-saving practices. Philip Boaz family farm focused on select vegetable crops and citrus fruits diverged from seed library practices.

Lastly, our team had an inspiring visit to Carole Domiclong’s seed library in Baguio City. Stepping into Manang Carole’s residence revealed not just a home but a vibrant hub of sustainable practices. Her 30-square meter organic backyard garden doubling as a seed production area exuded dedication and passion for preserving seeds. The sight of her extensive organic seed library, adorned with an impressive collection of regular and heirloom seeds, was a testament to her commitment to seed-saving practices.

Manang Carole’s interest in joining GSSP resonated with our vision, prompting an exciting agreement: a forum slated for March in Baguio, inviting all Baguio-based seed savers. This forum will serve as the launchpad for organizing the Summer Capital Seed Savers, fostering a community-driven movement towards sustainable agriculture and seed sovereignty.

Visiting our partner farmers’ farms and seed libraries cultivates thriving relationships and partnerships which fosters a resilient community dedicated to sustainable agriculture.