By Kenneth Marcos 
At sunrise, while many young Filipinos scroll through their phones or dream of city jobs, Paul De Dios heads to the fields. With soil-stained hands and a determined heart, he tends to crops passed down through generations. For him, farming is not just work—it is family, tradition, and a way of life he proudly embraces.
Unlike most of his peers who prefer urban careers, Paul deliberately chose agriculture. He sees it as a meaningful path that honors his family’s heritage while contributing to the community’s food security. “This is our legacy,” he says. “I want to continue what my parents and grandparents started.”
Paul’s story highlights a growing interest among young Filipinos in modernizing and sustaining agriculture, despite the sector often being overlooked. The Philippine Statistics Authority notes that while agriculture employs nearly a quarter of the labor force, young people make up a small percentage of farmers. Initiatives that support youth engagement in farming are seen as critical to ensuring long-term productivity and rural development.
For Paul, farming is more than planting and harvesting. It involves learning innovative techniques, managing resources efficiently, and exploring ways to make agriculture profitable while respecting the environment. He also shares knowledge with neighbors and younger students, inspiring others to see farming as both practical and rewarding.
Experts say stories like Paul’s are essential to shifting perceptions about agriculture. By combining tradition with innovation, young farmers can help revitalize rural economies, improve food production, and encourage sustainable practices.
While challenges remain—such as climate risks, fluctuating market prices, and limited access to technology—Paul remains committed. He believes that passion, knowledge, and persistence can overcome obstacles. “If we care for the land, the land will care for us,” he explains.
As more young Filipinos follow in Paul’s footsteps, the future of agriculture in the Philippines could see a new generation of farmers who value both heritage and innovation. His dedication is a reminder that choosing the fields is not a step back, but a leap toward sustaining family, community, and the nation’s food security.
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