In alignment with its dedication to supporting Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and fostering inclusive development, the Department of Agriculture (DA) recently conducted a week-long Agri-Entrepreneurship Training from June 9 to 13, 2025, as part of its Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K) Program.
The gathering united representatives from diverse indigenous groups throughout the Philippines along with key private sector collaborators. One of these collaborators was MarketReach International Resources, a company specializing in logistics, supply chain, and export solutions, known for connecting local agriculture to global demand.
Jatin Lalwani, CEO of MarketReach and a longstanding advocate for Filipino products in international markets, participated in the panel alongside Jeff Manhilot, Chief Operating Officer; and Marco Ragaza, Finance Manager. Coordinated by the Department of Agriculture, the panel discussion provided advice to IP farmers and small business entrepreneurs eager to expand their ventures beyond local avenues.
Mr. Lalwani brings over 20 years of expertise in value-generating businesses, export strategies, and agribusiness growth, possessing a profound insight into scaling local offerings into global opportunities. His vast international connections and on-the-ground understanding of emerging markets have made him an invaluable resource in linking Philippine producers with international buyers.
This partnership illustrates the DA’s progressive mindset: connecting grassroots producers with savvy and seasoned business experts who can transform what is cultivated from Philippine soil into high-value, internationally competitive products, ultimately enhancing national GDP through value-added exports.
Throughout the panel, participants displayed their traditional crafts and food items, receiving customized feedback on product enhancement, packaging, branding, pricing, and export preparedness. Mr. Lalwani highlighted the importance of integrating storytelling with products, urging participants to emphasize the cultural legacy and community narratives woven into their offerings. This, he pointed out, can be a potent strategy for differentiation in global markets.
Jeff and Marco advised attendees to initially concentrate on enhancing current products, ensuring consistency and quality prior to diversifying. “Establish robust foundations,” they advised, “and innovation can follow.” They also emphasized the significance of comprehending market conditions and developing trustworthy relations with distributors and purchasers.
The Department of Agriculture reinforced these insights, reminding participants that product consistency, particularly when preparing for export, is crucial for maintaining credibility and building enduring trade relationships.
Beyond technical skills, the event offered IP farmers and entrepreneurs a sense of empowerment. Many shared that they gained new clarity on product positioning, storytelling, and engaging actively with the market. From packaging design to cost arrangements, the training provided essential, practical business tools.
This successful training represents a significant advancement in the 4K Program’s objective of fostering livelihoods and prosperity within indigenous communities. By facilitating collaborations with firms like MarketReach International, the DA is nurturing an ecosystem where agricultural abundance intersects with business expertise, ensuring that Filipino farmers not only grow but also succeed in a contemporary, globalized economy.
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