YFC x DATE: Young Agripreneurs Shine at the 26th Davao Agri-Trade Expo

The 26th Davao Agri-Trade Expo (DATE) was more than just an agricultural event—it was a celebration of young, innovative minds shaping the future of agribusiness. This year, the expo became a platform for the Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) Program Awardees, showcasing the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of the next generation of agripreneurs.

Mr. Melvin Awid (4th from left) at the 26th Davao Agri-Trade Expo (DATE) with other YFC awardees. (Photo Source : YFC-Davao Region FB Page

Among the featured YFC awardees were Mr. Kennith Flor Balico of Tableya Corner, Mr. Wilmar P. Labanon of USWAG Agri Food Products, Mr. Melvin Awid of UF Vanilla Farm, and Ms. Andrea Rose Reyno of Calabaza Deli. Each of them shared their inspiring journey, detailing the challenges they overcame and the opportunities they seized to make their agribusiness ventures thrive.

Featured YFC Awardees at the 26th Davao Agri-Trade Expo.

Mr. Melvin Awid on his talk about his further endeavors for his UF Vanilla Farm at the 26th Davao-Agri Trade Expo.

Their stories reflected the diversity and potential of the agricultural sector, proving that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand in shaping a prosperous farming future. From value-added cacao products to premium vanilla cultivation and sustainable food innovations, these young entrepreneurs demonstrated how agriculture is evolving through fresh ideas and modern solutions.

According to Youthful Impact (2023), young entrepreneurs are more than just business owners—they are catalysts for personal and economic growth. They introduce innovative solutions that tackle real-world problems, creating products, services, and technologies that uplift communities and beyond.

The inclusion of YFC Program Awardees at DATE highlighted the dynamic transformation of agriculture in the Davao Region, reinforcing the vital role of youth in driving industry growth. Their participation not only inspired aspiring agripreneurs but also showcased the limitless opportunities in the agricultural sector for those ready to take on the challenge and become a Kabataang Agribiz.

With passionate young minds leading the way, the future of Philippine agriculture looks brighter than ever. The 26th DATE was more than an expo—it was a testament to the power of youth, innovation, and the boundless potential of agribusiness. /UFPH