By Kenneth Marcos 
Early in the cool highlands of Benguet, farmers carefully check rows of bright red strawberries growing under the mountain sun. Each fruit represents hours of work, careful planting, and new farming ideas designed to improve harvest and income.
These innovations in strawberry farming were the focus of a recent episode of the agriculture program “AgriAsenso,” which continues to promote modern farming practices and knowledge sharing among Filipino farmers.
The February 28 episode, titled “Beyond Fresh: Strawberry Innovations in Benguet,” featured two local farm owners from La Trinidad, Benguet who shared their experiences in improving strawberry production through technology and modern agricultural practices.
Guests included Jenalyn Pultino, owner of TLZ Garden in Strawberry Farm, and Margaret Atinyao, owner of CareBerry Green Crops Farm. During the program, the two farmers discussed how innovation can help small farms improve both productivity and market opportunities.
La Trinidad, Benguet is widely known as the Strawberry Capital of the Philippines. The cool climate and fertile soil of the area make it ideal for growing strawberries, attracting tourists and supporting the livelihood of many local farmers.
However, strawberry farming also faces challenges such as changing weather patterns, pest management, and maintaining product quality for the market. Because of these challenges, many farmers are now exploring new technologies and improved farming techniques.
During the AgriAsenso discussion, Pultino and Atinyao shared how their farms are adopting modern methods to improve crop management. These include better irrigation practices, improved planting systems, and farm management techniques designed to maintain consistent fruit quality.
They also explained how innovation helps farmers expand beyond selling fresh strawberries. Value-added products and improved post-harvest handling can help increase income by reaching wider markets.
Programs like AgriAsenso aim to bridge the gap between agricultural experts and farmers by sharing practical knowledge through digital platforms. By featuring real stories from farmers themselves, the program helps spread ideas that others can adopt in their own communities.
The show also encourages farmers and agriculture enthusiasts to continue learning and exploring new approaches to farming. Knowledge sharing plays an important role in strengthening the agriculture sector, especially for small-scale producers who rely on updated information to remain competitive.
The episode remains available for viewing on the program’s official Facebook page, allowing farmers and interested viewers to watch the full discussion at their convenience.
As agriculture continues to evolve, stories like those of Benguet’s strawberry farmers highlight the importance of innovation, cooperation, and continuous learning. By combining traditional farming knowledge with modern techniques, farmers can create more sustainable and profitable agricultural systems.
For many growers in the highlands and beyond, innovation in farming is not just about technology. It is about building stronger livelihoods and ensuring that Philippine agriculture continues to grow in the years ahead.
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