Filipinos are known for being hospitable. It has long been our trademark. Even if you confirm it with your foreign friends. Wherever you go, if there is even a single Filipino, you will never feel like being outcasted. You will experience a sense of belongingness. Sound simple, right? But in every environment, be it a workplace or a residence, it is always important to feel accepted, to be one, to belong. And that’s how we operate. Here at Desmond Farm, being the Filipinos that we are, we treat everyone as a family. We treat everyone just like how we wanted to be treated. Our relationship with each other is genuine. We care for each other, just like how we care for Desmond Farm. It is our home. And our fellow farmers are our family.
We do not function like a robot, just doing things routinely. Farming is a better part of our lives that every activity we undertake related to farming gives us, somehow, a sense of fulfillment. Here, we all work hard not just for ourselves and families but also for the farm. Desmond Farm has given us so many opportunities and help. It has been a channel of resources, skills, and learnings for all of us. We understand the vision of Desmond Farm and we know that it includes us, the farmers!
“As the one who trains and leads them, I say I keep my eyes on the ball all the time. I make sure that we, as a team, are prepared to accomplish our tasks in the agreed timeline and meeting expectations. I have learned so much from them, from the farmers. I know the theories, but they have practical and hands-on experiences. Here at Desmond Farm, we collaborate. We work as a team. And you know, whatever support is needed by the farmers, I am willing to give, as I truly believe in team spirit as the main driver in achieving set goals. Here, I have learned the strategy of leading while caring. If you care for them, they will care for you, too. That’s the relationship we have here at Desmond Farm. And that is the relationship I can boast of.” ~ Elmer P. Atun, Jr.
Every farmer contributes to the goal-attainment of Desmond Farm. How is that possible? Well, we are guided by these three core principles.
Hardwork
Every farmer is willing to go the extra mile, to put a great deal of effort into accomplishing every task given to them. From tilling the land, preparing the seedlings, and readying the organic fertilizers to caring for the trees. Exceeding targeted goals is our goal!
Passion
There is always a strong connection between the farmers of Desmond Farm and farming. It is not just farming. It is something everyone here loves to do. It is something that provides for our needs. Bread and butter. Also, farming gives us a sense of accomplishment other activities just couldn’t.
Commitment
Here at Desmond Farm, everyone demonstrated dedication in doing our work. We are all up for seeing the fruits of our labor, for realizing the vision we have first set in our minds and cultivated in our hearts.
These are the fuels that keep us going.