By Kenneth Marcos 
In a quiet town where rice fields meet small forests, students and farmers alike are learning new ways to grow crops while protecting the environment. Soon, this model could reach more communities, offering lessons in farming, conservation, and eco-tourism all in one place.
The Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) BIOTROP, in partnership with SEAMEO SEARCA, will hold a regional seminar on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, to launch the Agro-Eco-Edu-Tourism (AEET) prototype in the Philippines. This program aims to combine sustainable urban agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and education for eco-tourism development.
Experts and community leaders will gather from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (GMT+8) to discuss strategies for integrating agriculture, environmental education, and tourism. The seminar seeks to inspire local communities to adopt farming methods that are productive, environmentally friendly, and profitable.
The AEET model is designed as a learning hub where students, farmers, and tourists can experience hands-on farming, conservation activities, and guided tours that promote appreciation for biodiversity. By combining education with practical application, the initiative also aims to create additional livelihood opportunities for rural communities.
“Urban agriculture and biodiversity conservation are key to sustainable development,” said organizers. “AEET provides a concrete example of how education, tourism, and farming can work together to benefit both people and the environment.”
The project is part of a larger effort across Southeast Asia to encourage eco-friendly farming practices, improve food security, and develop local tourism that respects natural resources. Previous studies in the region have shown that integrated approaches like AEET can increase farmers’ income while raising public awareness about environmental protection.
Interested participants and stakeholders can register online through the official link and join the seminar to learn directly from leading experts. The event also provides a platform for networking and collaboration among educators, government agencies, local communities, and tourism developers.
As the Philippines continues to seek innovative ways to support sustainable livelihoods and environmental stewardship, programs like AEET may become a model for other provinces looking to balance agriculture, education, and tourism.
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