Attending the Davao Agri Trade Expo 2026 was a rewarding experience, but one session truly stood out: Session 10: “Seeds of Change: Inspiring the Next Generation of Agri-Leaders”. Focusing on next-gen farmers and agripreneurs, this segment served as a powerful reminder of why we dedicate ourselves to education and youth development in the agricultural sector.
Hearing from visionary young leaders such as Mr. Cyrus Bautista (Founder, Phytosphere Agro -Biotech), Mr. Seth Dominic Subang (Strategic Partnerships Officer, SF Group of Companies), Mr. Ethan Kyle Lim (Owner, Cacao de Davao), and Ms. Julia Marie P. Balase (Founder & Owner, Coconaturals Soap Manufacturing) was deeply inspiring. Their energy, innovative approaches, and commitment to sustainable growth show that the future of agriculture is in remarkably capable hands.
As a teacher/dean, witnessing these young trail-blazers transform the agri-business landscape fills me with immense hope and pride. They are not only driving innovation across biotechnology, cacao processing, natural products, and corporate strategy, but they are also redefining what it means to build a career in agriculture.
Seeing their passion reaffirms our mission in academia: to nurture, support, and empower the next generation so they can continue planting the seeds of change for our region and nation. The future of agriculture is bright, and it starts with these young leaders.
