By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the warm sun of Brooke’s Point, Palawan, more than 1,600 farmers and fishers gathered last October 10, 2025, with hope in their hearts and tools for progress in their hands. For many of them, this was more than just an event—it was a rare opportunity to access financial services and support that could change their lives.
The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) launched the 7th leg of its AGRISENSO Plus Lending Program, bringing financial education, digital banking, and affordable credit closer to rural communities in southern Palawan.
Empowering farmers through financial access
Farmers and fishers from Brooke’s Point, Narra, Rizal, Sofronio Española, and nearby municipalities participated in on-site activities designed to help them better manage their income and grow their livelihood.
One of the key highlights was instant account opening through the LANDBANK Mobile Banking App (MBA)—allowing farmers to experience digital banking services for the first time, without the need to travel far or wait in long lines.
Through AGRISENSO Plus, LANDBANK offers easy-to-access loan programs aimed at helping rural workers buy equipment, invest in seeds, and expand their farming and fishing operations. The program also emphasizes the importance of financial literacy, so beneficiaries can make informed decisions about budgeting and saving.
Strong support from national agencies and local officials
LANDBANK President and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz personally led the launch event, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to inclusive economic growth. She was joined by key officials from government agencies and local government units who pledged their full support.
Among the guests were:
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BSP Director Mynard Bryan R. Mojica and Deputy Director Cesar Augusto E. Villanueva, Jr.
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DAR Representative Escolastic Segovia
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Brooke’s Point Mayor Cesareo R. Beneficto, Jr.
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ACPC Deputy Director Ma. Cristina G. Lopez
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BFAR Regional Director Roberto R. Abrera
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PCIC Representative Ferdinand B. Evasco
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NIA Regional Manager Engr. Edwin C. Nazareno
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Municipal mayors Gerandy B. Danao (Narra), Norman S. Ong (Rizal), and Abnet Rafael N. Tesoro (Sofronio Española)
Also in attendance were several senior LANDBANK officials, including Executive Vice President Ma. Celeste A. Burgos and Senior Vice Presidents Roderick P. Sacro, Marilou L. Villafranca, and Catherine Rowena B. Villanueva, along with First Vice President Grace Ofelia Lovely V. Dayo.
A step toward a more inclusive future
The AGRISENSO Plus Program is more than a loan facility—it’s a platform that bridges the gap between modern banking and grassroots agriculture. With the help of mobile banking, community outreach, and public-private partnerships, LANDBANK hopes to build a more resilient and financially capable farming sector.
In the face of rising challenges in agriculture—from climate change to rising production costs—initiatives like this give hope and stability to those who put food on every Filipino’s table.
As LANDBANK continues its rollouts across the country, the message is clear: no farmer or fisher should be left behind.
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