The SM Group continues to champion inclusive growth by empowering smallholder farmers with sustainable farming skills, helping them improve their livelihoods and boost food security in their communities.
At the core of this effort is the SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) Farming Program, which has trained 32,359 farmers nationwide. In collaboration with partners like Philippine Geothermal Production Company (PGPC), SM’s livelihood initiatives have reached over 49,000 farmers to date.
In 2025, KSK will extend its reach to more rural and underserved areas, including Northern Mindanao, Bicol, and parts of the Visayas, bringing training opportunities directly to communities that need them most.
“We believe inclusive growth starts at the community level,” said Cristie Angeles, SM Foundation Assistant Vice President for Livelihood and Outreach Programs. “By investing in smallholder farmers, we help secure local food systems and build better futures in rural areas.”
Through hands-on training, the KSK program teaches practical backyard and small-scale farming techniques aimed at improving crop quality and productivity. The program also connects farmers to local markets and to SM’s broader supplier network, encouraging cooperative formation and enabling more stable, long-term income for farming families.
These efforts support findings from the Asian Development Bank, which highlight the role of smallholder farmers as key drivers of food systems in developing countries. Globally, they represent 84 percent of all farms and produce nearly one-third of the world’s food. In the Philippines, where many farm less than a hectare of land, access to technology, knowledge, and markets is essential.
To strengthen market access, SM launched the SM Weekend Market, a platform that allows local farmers and agripreneurs to sell their produce directly in high-traffic mall areas. This initiative helps them reach more customers, from everyday shoppers to mall employees and tenants.
SM’s community-focused initiatives extend across its businesses. Through PGPC, SM supports urban agriculture projects in partnership with the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems, promoting sustainable gardening practices and identifying long-term farm sites.
Together, these initiatives reflect the SM Group’s commitment to inclusive development, creating meaningful livelihood opportunities, supporting rural progress, and contributing to stronger local economies.
