In Leyte, Leyte, farmers and fisherfolk are transforming ideas into impact through the BPI Foundation Farm to Table in Leyte, Leyte: “Agricultural Services to Elevate Farmers towards Sustainable Food Security and Livelihood” (AgrElevate) Program of Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) supported by BPI Foundation (BPIF). Beneficiaries have successfully developed and complied with their business plans, marking a significant step toward sustainable enterprise development.
To support these efforts, BPI Foundation conducted financial literacy sessions for group members, while BanKo, a BPI subsidiary, extended capital support through loans to individuals interested in starting their own businesses. The program recently concluded a comprehensive Enterprise Development sessions including:
- Sanayan sa Kakayahang Pangangalakal (SKP)
- Enterprise Operations Manual (Policy Making)
- Financial Literacy Training
- Leadership Enhancement and Attitude Development (LEAD) for Groups
These initiatives equipped participants with essential skills in business planning, financial management, and leadership—empowering them to thrive as community-based enterprises.
On July 21, a financial literacy session was held to provide practical knowledge on saving, budgeting, and making informed financial decisions. Facilitated by BPI Foundation, the session emphasized the importance of financial independence in building a secure and empowered future.
The following day July 22, six community groups received capital support for their proposed livelihood ventures:
- Longline Oyster Culture Project
- Ube (Purple Yam) Production Expansion Project
- Rice Harvest Consolidation Project
- Consolidation and Postharvest Processing of Palay Project
- Oyster and Mussel in Bottles Project
- Seafood Products Processing
Each project was designed by the groups themselves, reflecting the unique needs and opportunities within their communities. These ventures aim to boost productivity, generate income, and foster collaboration among local farmers and fisherfolk.
A ceremonial awarding and MOA signing marked this milestone, attended by key stakeholders including:
- Melanie Magbuhos, Program Manager, BPI Foundation
- Mae Minggoy, Program Coordinator, BPI Foundation
- Raiza V. Cusi, Program Director, PSFI
- Pam Castro, Senior Program Manager for Nutrition and Food Security, PSFI
- Ynna Doblado, Program Manager for Downstream, PSFI
- Florencio Aguilos Jr., Municipal Administrator, Leyte
- Michael Cabillo, Representative, Municipal Agriculture Office
Their presence underscored the strong multi-sectoral collaboration driving community-led development.
Message from PSFI Program Director Raiza Cusi
“Ang inyong success ay ‘di lang maiaangat ang antas ng pamumuhay para sa inyong sarili, pamilya, at komunidad. Higit sa lahat, ito ay makakaambag sa pag-unlad ng ating bayan, lalo na sa ekonomiyang panglokal, para ngayon at para sa kinabukasan.”
To ensure long-term success, PSFI also facilitated a Leadership Enhancement and Attitude Development for Groups sessions from July23-24, equipping beneficiaries with foundational skills in leadership, business management, and decision-making—critical tools for guiding their enterprises with clarity and confidence.
AgrElevate is more than a livelihood program—it is a platform for local changemakers to rise, lead, and uplift others. With the right tools, training, and trust, PSFI continues to invest in the resilience and progress of farming communities across the country.
