In the heart of Sibonga, Cebu, farmers, community leaders, and advocates gathered at Our Lady of Divine Grace Social Hall for a powerful Seed Sovereignty Forum. Hosted in partnership with Our Lady of Divine Grace Parish, this gathering served as a vital space to deepen the conversation around seed sovereignty and its impact on farmers, communities, and the environment. More than just a discussion, the forum provided an opportunity to mobilize farmers interested in becoming seed savers—ensuring that the legacy of traditional and organic farming continues to thrive.

With the looming threats of commercial farming and seed dependency, the event underscored how saving and sharing seeds is an act of resilience and self-determination. Farmers in attendance expressed both concern and hope—concern for how industrial agriculture has shaped farming practices in Cebu, but also hope in the possibility of reclaiming control over their seeds and food systems. The enthusiasm from participants was clear, as many signed up to join the upcoming Seed Schools, eager to learn how to preserve, cultivate, and pass down native seed varieties for future generations.

The partnership with Cebu Caritas communities is a critical step in spreading seed sovereignty awareness across the province. Through these connections, the movement can reach even the most remote farming communities, providing them with the tools, education, and networks needed to restore biodiversity, ensure food sovereignty, and protect their agricultural heritage. This forum was a powerful affirmation that seed sovereignty is not just about farming—it’s about preserving culture, protecting the land, and ensuring a future of abundance for all.

At the heart of every thriving food system is a strong network of farmers committed to seed sovereignty. In partnership with the Tuburan Local Government Unit (LGU), Global Seed Savers recently hosted a Community Learning Awareness on Seed Sovereignty session at the Municipal Nursery in Tuburan, Cebu. Organic growers, farmers, and Sugbusog community partners came together to learn about the importance of saving and sharing locally adapted seeds. More than just a workshop, this gathering sparked deep conversations about how seed saving ensures food sovereignty, strengthens resilience, and reduces dependence on costly commercial seeds.

One of the most powerful takeaways from the session was the realization that shared passion creates natural connections. Farmers from the FCCT cooperative saw firsthand the urgent need for accessible, organic seeds in their communities. Recognizing the role of seed saving in sustainability, they committed to inviting their members to future Seed Schools and Seed Sovereignty Forums (SSF/CLASS). This spirit of collaboration highlights the strength of community-led solutions—when farmers support one another, they build networks that sustain not just crops, but entire communities.

As we look ahead to Seed School 1 and 2, this session laid the foundation for inclusive, farmer-driven planning. With local farmers at the center of these efforts, we continue to nurture a movement where knowledge is shared, traditions are honored, and communities take control of their food systems. Thank you to all who joined and to our dedicated partners for making this gathering a space of learning, connection, and belonging!

At St. Francis of Assisi Learning Farm and Food Sanctuary in Koronadal City, farmers, advocates, and community members gathered for Seed School 2, a powerful continuation of our journey toward seed sovereignty. In partnership with SAC Marbel, this training deepened participants’ knowledge of Global Seed Savers’ seed-saving standards, ensuring that traditional and organic farming practices remain at the heart of our food systems. The session also served as a stepping stone, identifying qualified participants for Seed School 3 and finalizing the recipient list for seed library boxes—an essential resource for keeping native seeds in circulation.

A striking moment came when a participant, who had been leasing his land to commercial seed industries, expressed his guilt after attending the session. Initially, he joined just to observe, but the discussions around food rediscovery and organic seed saving were a turning point for him. As he reflected on Fr. Jerome’s food rediscovery program and GSSP’s advocacy, he saw how everything starts with a seed—and how reclaiming traditional seed-saving practices is key to building a truly healthy and sovereign food system. His story is a testament to the power of education and community-driven movements in shifting mindsets and reclaiming food autonomy.

This gathering also shed light on the widespread shift toward commercial farming in Mindanao, even among the B’laan tribe, whose traditional farming knowledge has been overshadowed by the promise of higher yields from hybrid seeds. Yet, as many farmers are beginning to realize, the pursuit of “instant” profits has come at a cost—damaging Indigenous food systems, depleting biodiversity, and eroding community ties. Seed School 2 was a reminder that our work is more urgent than ever. By equipping farmers with the skills and knowledge to protect their seeds, land, and traditions, we are planting the seeds of resilience, sustainability, and food sovereignty for generations to come.