Manila – The Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development arm of the Jollibee Group, brought together the local implementing partners (LIPs) of its Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) from August 19 to 21, strengthening collaboration and deepening shared commitment to help farmers build better livelihoods.
The three-day workshop, titled Journey to Growth: Strengthening Capacities, Advancing Farmer Enterprises, focused on giving LIPs practical tools and opportunities to learn from one another. The sessions helped partners find new ways to guide farmer groups more effectively, so they can become stronger, more sustainable farming communities.
“This workshop ensures that our partners are equipped with the right tools and knowledge to guide our farmer groups more effectively,” said Gisela Tiongson, President of Jollibee Group Foundation. “As the FEP program continues to grow, we want out partners to grow with us, providing support that truly responds to the unique needs of each farming community they work with.”
Training for the Future
The capacity building activity gathered participants from local governments, microfinance institutions, cooperatives, farmer leaders, academe, and representatives from Jollibee Group business units – all united by a common goal: to help farmers grow their enterprises and strengthen their role in the food value chain.
plans that address the unique needs of their respective farmer groups.
the program’s strategic goal.
Over three days, the partners took part in a mix of learning sessions and peer discussions led by subject matter experts from various fields. The sessions showed what it takes to run a successful farm business- from good customer service and efficient operations to sound financial management. The sessions also encouraged participants to reflect on how they can guide farmer groups not just in growing crops, but in becoming dependable suppliers to bigger markets.
One highlight was the presentation of action plans by LIPs to strengthen the farmer enterprises they are supporting, which were reviewed by fellow LIPs, creating a space for peer-to-peer learning and fresh ideas that they can bring back to their communities. These presentations reflected the action plans developed during the workshop, anchored on real data, insights, and shared experiences.
“We learned a lot from the sessions on how we can strengthen our support to the farmers in our communities. We sincerely thank JGF for the continued guidance so we can be more effective and grow together. (Marami po kaming natutunan sa sessions upang paigtingin pa ang suporta namin sa mga magsasaka sa aming lugar. Nagpapasalamat po kami sa JGF sa patuloy na paggabay sa amin upang mas maging epektibo pa at magtulungan upang sama-sama tayong umunlad.),” shared Justine Lynn Limocon, Manager of the Business Development Center at Sacred Heart Savings Cooperative.
The 2025 Journey to Growth Workshop is part of Jollibee Group Foundation’s ongoing effort to ensure farmers have the right support system—partners who are capable, aligned, and committed to building thriving farming communities.
