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Long before the 黑料网 recognized him as a vital voice in the country\u2019s agricultural advocacy, Engr. Mike Pedroso, Chairperson of the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council (RAFC) in Eastern Visayas, was already sowing the seeds of change\u2014quietly, diligently, and with unwavering purpose.<\/p>\n
It all began in 1999, when Pedroso, then a professional in the manufacturing industry, made the pivotal decision to change course. Disenchanted with the corporate world, he yearned for something more meaningful. \u201cI wanted to be happy, live a healthy life, and most importantly, leave a legacy,\u201d he said. A near-fatal accident sealed his resolve. When he recovered, he stepped into the fields\u2014literally\u2014and never looked back.<\/p>\n
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From humble beginnings cultivating a 1.7-hectare rice field in Calbayog City, Samar, Pedroso\u2019s farm would eventually grow to nearly four hectares, with a significant portion devoted to jackfruit. His fascination with the crop was sparked in 1986 through a subscription to an agricultural magazine. The magazine noted that jackfruit was well-suited for his region\u2019s soil and climate. \u201cJackfruit became my crop of choice\u2014not just because it\u2019s suitable, but because I genuinely love it,\u201d he shared.<\/p>\n
His journey wasn\u2019t without hurdles. One of his first major challenges was sourcing quality seedlings. Fortunately, he got involved with the Calbayog High Value Planters Association and benefited from the Department of Agriculture\u2019s \u201cPlant Now, Pay Later\u201d program, allowing him to secure grafted jackfruit seedlings. Despite national implementation issues, the program served as a pivotal steppingstone for Pedroso\u2019s vocation.<\/p>\n
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As a dedicated volunteer, Pedroso\u2019s involvement in the Agricultural and Fishery Council (AFC) spans two decades of steadfast service, organic leadership growth, and grassroots impact. He began his journey in the AFC in 2004, initially elected as Vice Chairperson of the City Agricultural and Fishery Council (CAFC) after a surprise nomination at a meeting he attended merely out of courtesy. What seemed accidental at first eventually became a lifelong calling. His early experience as a cooperative leader helped him seamlessly transition into the participatory and consultative framework of the AFC.<\/p>\n
From CAFC Vice Chairperson, Pedroso steadily moved up the ranks\u2014later becoming CAFC Chairperson, then ascending to the Provincial Agricultural and Fishery Council (PAFC) of Samar as Vice Chairperson and subsequently becoming Chairperson. His commitment and insight made him a natural choice to represent the fruits and vegetables sector at the RAFC, where he currently serves not just as a member but also as a respected voice of farmers in policymaking circles. In this role, he contributes to crafting regional agricultural strategies, ensuring that issues from the ground\u2014such as lack of infrastructure, access to quality planting materials, or pest management\u2014are heard at higher levels.<\/p>\n
For Pedroso, each step up in the ladder was never about prestige\u2014it was always about purpose. \u201cWhatever the requirement of the job, I fulfill it,\u201d he affirmed. A longtime cooperative advocate, Pedroso was even one of the founding members of The National Confederation of Cooperatives (formerly known as Coop NATCCO) Party List in 1998, proof that his passion for inclusive development runs deep.<\/p>\n
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As a RAFC Chairperson today, Pedroso views his work as a way to pursue advocacies close to his heart: improving farmers\u2019 access to farm-to-market roads, water, electricity, and disease-resistant crops. He reflects, \u201cThere are still so many areas without electricity. I\u2019ve had to irrigate and troubleshoot problems myself. But as I faced these challenges, I also grew more knowledgeable, especially in the technical aspects of farming.\u201d<\/p>\n
Pedroso\u2019s philosophy in the AFC is grounded in purposeful leadership, illustrating his readiness to take on responsibilities without hesitation. His vision goes beyond representation\u2014he advocates for structural reforms in the AFC system itself, including clearer career pathways for volunteer leaders and stronger integration with national policy bodies. He believes the AFC should not merely be an advisory body but a vital platform for sustained farmer engagement and empowerment.<\/p>\n
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Through back-to-back meetings, mentoring younger volunteers, and maintaining a strong presence in consultative bodies, Pedroso has become a cornerstone in the AFC network in the Eastern Visayas Region. His leadership not only ensures representation for his sector but also helps bridge the gap between local realities and national agricultural development goals.<\/p>\n
What keeps him motivated isn\u2019t just the chance to improve his farm, but the opportunity to make a difference in the larger agricultural landscape. \u201cEven if we\u2019re not always heard, we can still influence,\u201d he said. \u201cWe can advocate for meaningful change.\u201d<\/p>\n
One of his hopes is to see a clear career path for AFC leaders and more national recognition for their roles. \u201cSome local AFC Chairpersons just return to their barangays after their terms. We should elevate them\u2014to help them grow, not regress,\u201d he said, underscoring the importance of sustained leadership development in volunteer councils.<\/p>\n
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Pedroso also values the friendships and opportunities the role has brought him. \u201cThere are many benefits: travel, connections, and the chance to truly pursue your advocacies,\u201d he noted. And perhaps more than anything, he hopes to inspire the next generation\u2014his children, grandchildren, and fellow farmers\u2014to believe in the quiet power of persistence and purpose.<\/p>\n