Cebu, Philippines – In 2014, a small group of 23 individuals founded the Pestales Agriculture Cooperative, which is currently based in Hayunan, Jampang, Argao, Cebu, Region VII, Philippines. At the time, Jenalyn Entoy and her friends were visiting Caleriohan, Dalaguete, Cebu, unaware that a transformative journey in sustainable farming was just beginning. With only a 200-square-meter plot of land and a modest hut made of light materials, the cooperative’s first venture was planting sayote to sustain their group. Despite the humble beginnings, their ambition was anything but small.
By May 3, 2016, Pestales was officially registered as a cooperative. They had even managed to secure a 2.8-hectare demo farm to promote organic farming, however, the land was later taken back by its owner. Undeterred, the group pressed on. In 2020, a new chapter began when they acquired Braveheart Farm, laying down deeper roots for what the cooperative is today.
But the path has never been easy. In their early years, Pestales Cooperative members were accused of being rebels hiding behind the guise of farming. They were summoned by their local government units and were subjected to threats. Their dogs were killed, and the farmers themselves were warned they could be next. In times of scarcity, they survived on lugaw (porridge). Then in 2021, Typhoon Odette struck and devastated their livelihoods. Yet through every storm, the cooperative stood firm.
Among the cooperative’s members is Eddie Rex Entoy, a young farmer and passionate advocate for organic agriculture. For Eddie, being part of the cooperative means more than just farming, it is about carrying forward a legacy of resilience, sustainability, and collective growth. Eddie sees being a youth member of the cooperative as both a responsibility and an opportunity. “We, the youth, are the future of farming,” he says. For him, practicing and promoting organic agriculture is a lifestyle and a mission. He believes in creating societal impact by staying true to the cooperative’s mantra: “From farm to table.”
Eddie is especially passionate about addressing systemic issues faced by smallholder farmers. He speaks out against the unjust treatment by middlemen and the perception that farmers lack the education or voice to advocate for themselves. His solution? Empowerment through organic farming, cooperation, and education.
As a college undergraduate, Eddie is proving that being a farmer does not mean being left behind. “We are farmers, but we are also leaders, role models, and changemakers,” he says. Through social media and digital tools, he spreads the word: organic farming is not just viable, it is vital. His posts, stories, and content tell the world that there is life and dignity in farming.
Eddie also takes part in the 4-H Club, a youth organization that empowers young people in agriculture. Through this group, and various trainings he has joined, Eddie deepens his knowledge of organic farming and shares what he learns with others. In addition, he also works as an office staff member of the cooperative, helping streamline farm operations while actively contributing to its growth.
Today, Pestales Agriculture Cooperative is an excellent example of what grassroots farming communities can achieve. They have developed value-added products, sell fresh produce, conduct farm tours, and host organizations interested in learning from their model. Their growing online presence has connected them with wider audiences, allowing them to spread their message of sustainability far and wide.
Visitors come to learn and they return inspired. The cooperative’s story of perseverance in the face of adversity touches many. And Eddie believes that social media is a key driver in sharing not just their practices, but their spirit–their vision for a better, greener, and more just world.
Looking back, Eddie considers himself lucky. “I’m grateful that my path brought me here,” he reflects. “We may come from different backgrounds, but we share the same dream. And when you do something with love and determination, nothing is impossible.”
To young farmers like him, Eddie offers this message: Being a farmer is not the end of your dreams; it can be the beginning. Learn to love what you do. Be content, work hard, and the rewards will come. Farming is tough, but with purpose and passion, we can change the world.
Pestales Agricultural Cooperative is a member of the AgriCOOPh, a member of AFA in the Philippines.
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