"Our goal is to share our knowledge not only within our community but also through various government agencies that invite us. We have already trained associations, students, out-of-school youth and fellow farmers on our agricultural interventions.”
AT the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, when livelihoods were disrupted across the Philippines, one woman in La Union transformed uncertainty into opportunity.
For Veverly Uyaan, founding Vel Sierra Integrated Farm in Balaoan, La Union, on Sept. 7, 2020, marked the start of a purpose-driven enterprise anchored on resilience, sustainability and community empowerment.
What began as a small-scale production of oyster and volvariella mushrooms has since evolved into a steady source of income, serving as the backbone of her family’s livelihood.
More than just a farm, Vel Sierra demonstrates how sustainable agriculture can support both economic recovery and environmental stewardship — key priorities in national development.
Guided by a “seed-to-market” approach, the farm applies circular agriculture principles where waste is minimized and resources are maximized.
Spent mushroom substrates are repurposed into organic fertilizers and combined with other farm by-products to enrich the soil.
This closed-loop system supports the cultivation of crops such as sugarcane, papaya, native chili and high-value seedlings — showing how integrated farming can improve productivity while reducing dependence on costly chemical inputs.
By promoting resource efficiency and organic practices, the farm aligns with broader national goals of food security, climate resilience and sustainable rural development.
Rural development
Uyaan highlights the vital role of women in agriculture, describing them as both the “heart” and “compass” of the household.
Her story reflects a broader development insight: when women are empowered, the benefits extend beyond families to entire communities.
Women farmers contribute not only to food production but also to decision-making, financial management and long-term planning.
Balancing farm operations with family responsibilities, Uyaan exemplifies a form of leadership rooted in care, accountability and sustainability — values increasingly recognized in gender-responsive development strategies nationwide.
Vel Sierra Integrated Farm has grown into a community learning site, supporting knowledge exchange and capacity-building at the grassroots level.
Through partnerships with government agencies, the farm hosts students, farmer groups, associations and out-of-school youth, providing hands-on training in sustainable farming techniques and agribusiness practices.
“Our goal is to share our knowledge not only within our community but also through various government agencies that invite us. We have already trained associations, students, out-of-school youth and fellow farmers on our agricultural interventions,” Uyaan shared.
These efforts strengthen local capacities and encourage collaboration among farmers — an essential element in building resilient agricultural communities.
Inspiring next generation
Beyond livelihood, the farm serves as a platform to reshape perceptions about agriculture — especially among the youth.
By demonstrating that farming can be both profitable and innovative, Vel Sierra encourages young people to view agriculture not as a last resort, but as a viable and meaningful career path.
This shift is critical to addressing the country’s aging farmer population and ensuring the future of Philippine agriculture.
Uyaan’s journey, which was shared during the Gender and Development (GAD) Convention of the Regional GAD Committee in Ilocos Region, reflects key development themes relevant across the country: women’s empowerment, sustainable agriculture and community resilience.
Her experience illustrates how small, community-based initiatives can contribute to national priorities — food security, inclusive growth and climate adaptation.
From a modest mushroom farm to a model of sustainable and inclusive development, Vel Sierra Integrated Farm stands as proof that crisis can spark innovation.
Through compassion-driven enterprise, knowledge-sharing and a commitment to sustainability, Uyaan has cultivated more than crops — she has nurtured resilience, empowered communities and planted seeds for a more sustainable future. PIA