BAKA, XU DevCom Soc win TAYO 20

by Engel Bahia

MANILA -- Last March 11, the Bayanihan sa Agrikultura para sa Kabatan-onan, Kaumahan, ug Katubigan (BAKA) Program won a spot in the 20th year of the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards at the Far Eastern University (FEU) Auditorium, Sampaloc. 

The program is a collaboration between the Agricultural Productivity Operations Office (APOO) and the Oro Youth Development Office (OYDO). Moreover, the program partnered with the Xavier University Development Communication Society (XU DevCom Soc) among other partners to fulfill its components.

The BAKA Program was among the 491 entries to secure a spot in the TOP 20 youth organizations with 17 graduates called BAKAs.

The judges include co-founders Attorney Mabel Mamba, and former senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, and co-presenters Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines President Cecile Alcantara and San Miguel Corporation Vice President for Corporate Affairs Kin Lichauco.

Former XU DevCom Soc President John Esteward Carcosia joined APOO Institutional Development Officer and Program Director Ezel Lambatan, former OYDO Head JP Santos, and Training Officer and Director for Agribusiness Rona Grace Sahonlay in the national awarding ceremony.

“When Ezel introduced the BAKA program matrix a year ago, I was aware that the program would eventually grow its network, either by special recognition or laborious effort. Hence, it actually did! The synergy of several partners made this recognition that gained more network and opportunities for our BAKAs.” said Stew Carcosia, former XU DevComSoc President.

The collaboration aims to capacitate the Kagay-anon youth to become effective leaders and business-oriented entrepreneurs in the agriculture landscape in Cagayan de Oro City.

Xu DevCom Soc conducted a marketing and communications training. Graphic Artist Meckhan Tagarda gave tips on establishing and maintaining a brand, specifically on Facebook, for the BAKAs' enterprises.

“Nindot kaayo sa feeling na maka pay it forward sa imong na-learn sa school. I was just invited to give time simple tips pero it turns out na dako diay tog impact sa program to have the TAYO Award and especially sa mga young farmers.” said Meckhan Tagarda.

The BAKA Program is preparing for its second installment, aiming for 30 new Kagay-anon leaders and agriculture advocates for the year-long program.