KOICA Urges Aklan Farmers To Maximize Their Smart Greenhouse Facility

KALIBO, AKLAN — Dr. Yoon Haejin of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has urged local farmers to fully utilize the newly established smart agriculture greenhouse facility in Kalibo, Aklan, to boost agricultural production and improve their income through access to bigger markets, particularly in Boracay.

During the inauguration of the Aklan facility on November 7, 2026, Dr. Yoon encouraged farmers to take advantage of the modern greenhouse technology provided under the Value Chain Enhancement of High-Value Crops through Smart Agriculture (VEHCSA) Project.

He expressed hope that the facility would not only increase the province’s production of high-value crops but also create better economic opportunities for farmers by connecting them directly with buyers in Boracay’s tourism industry.

Dr. Yoon highlighted the potential of Boracay as a major market for locally grown agricultural products, particularly fresh vegetables and other high-value crops needed by hotels, resorts, restaurants and supermarkets. He hopes that farmers will earn more from supplying quality produce to the island’s growing tourism sector.

The Aklan smart greenhouse, located at the Aklan Agri-Aqua Demonstration Farm and Training Center in Barangay Nalook, Kalibo, covers 5,420 square meters. It has already recorded its initial harvest of 930 kilograms, consisting of 454 kilograms of lettuce, 414 kilograms of cherry tomatoes and 62 kilograms of bell peppers.

The facility is projected to produce 22,000 kilograms of lettuce, 14,300 kilograms of cherry tomatoes, 11,700 kilograms of bell peppers and 4,100 kilograms of melons by 2027, aside from culinary herbs.

The USD 8-million KOICA grant, implemented in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, supports the establishment of four smart agriculture facilities in Aklan, Iloilo, Antique and Negros Occidental.

Through the project, more than 800 farmers are also expected to benefit from training and capacity-building programs, strengthening their ability to adopt modern farming practices, increase productivity and participate in the agricultural supply chain.

With Boracay identified as one of the project’s major target markets, the initiative hopes to establish a stronger connection between Aklan farmers and the island’s tourism businesses, allowing locally produced agricultural goods to reach consumers while creating additional income opportunities for farming communities.