For over two decades, Cherrie Atilano has dedicated her life to transforming the agricultural landscape of the Philippines. Starting her journey in the male-dominated world of agriculture at a young age, she has tirelessly worked to empower farmers and redefine farming as a profitable and attractive profession.
“I started my business as a woman in a male-dominated industry,” Atilano reflects. “I encourage everyone to go back to farming and let’s make farming sexy.”
Growing up in Marinduque, one of the poorest and most hunger-stricken islands in the Philippines, Atilano witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by farming communities. Determined to eradicate poverty and alleviate the effects of climate change, she envisions transforming Marinduque into a renowned farm tourism destination. Her mission is to build the island’s economy around sustainable agriculture, bringing prosperity to farming families.
Central to her efforts is the development of a farm school that not only teaches advanced production technologies but also focuses on agropreneurship. By instilling an entrepreneurial mindset, she believes farmers will take greater ownership of their land and productivity.
“Once farmers feel they are entrepreneurs, they will take ownership to make their farm productive,” she explains.
Atilano is particularly passionate about involving more women in agriculture. She ensures that at least 50% of her farm school enrollees are women. Recognizing the pivotal role women play in household finances, the school also offers training in financial literacy.
“We train women on financial literacy because they are usually the ones budgeting at home,” she says.
Despite the challenges of operating in a predominantly male industry, Atilano feels that with the right attitude and values, women can succeed and lead. She encourages female farmers to equip themselves with knowledge, emphasizing that it is a powerful tool for personal and community advancement.
Cherrie Atilano’s relentless dedication is not just changing perceptions about farming in the Philippines but is also fostering a new generation of empowered, knowledgeable farmers ready to lead the way toward a sustainable and prosperous future.
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A Filipino businesswoman who spent 20 years empowering farmers
cgtn.com
