BREWING PEACE TOGETHER: A JOURNEY OF SHARED LEADERSHIP, VOLUNTEERISM, AND HOPE IN DAVAO’S COFFEE COMMUNITIES

On March 26, 2026, during the celebration of National Volunteer Day, I stood in deep gratitude as the Department of Agriculture, through the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries, conferred upon our work the Regional Level Most Promising Sectoral Committee Award. I received this recognition not as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of a shared journey—a journey shaped by community, sustained by relationships, and guided by a collective vision for a more inclusive and peaceful agricultural sector. This moment affirmed that when diverse stakeholders come together with trust and shared purpose, meaningful transformation becomes possible. It also reminded me that the seeds we plant through volunteerism—though often unseen—grow into lasting impact in the lives of farmers and communities. Above all, it strengthened my resolve to continue serving with humility, knowing that every step forward is carried by the strength of many, not just one.

As CEO of Coffee for Peace, Inc., and as President of both the Davao Regional Coffee Council and the Davao City Coffee Council, I have come to understand that leadership in our field is never about standing above others. It is about walking with people—farmers, women, indigenous communities, youth, and partners—who all carry the same hope: that agriculture can be a pathway to dignity, justice, and peace.

This recognition from the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries affirms the importance of participatory governance, where voices from the ground are not only heard but valued in shaping policies and programs. Yet, as I reflect on this moment, I know in my heart that volunteering is never a solo journey. Whatever I have been able to contribute is deeply rooted in the people who have journeyed with me over the years.

I am especially grateful to the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council XI family, whose support and trust have been instrumental in this path. To Sir Roy Dela Pascua, to Glie, to Mam Phoebe, and to our entire Region XI team—you have been more than colleagues; you have been companions in service. Your encouragement, wisdom, and unwavering commitment have made it possible for me to keep going, even in the most challenging seasons.

In Coffee for Peace, we have always believed that every cup of coffee carries a story—a story of farmers striving for better lives, of communities rebuilding from conflict, and of relationships being restored. This same spirit of shared purpose is what I see in the work of our sectoral committees. We are not merely fulfilling roles; we are weaving connections that strengthen the very fabric of our communities.

Receiving this award reminds me that the true measure of our work is not in titles or recognitions, but in the lives we touch and the relationships we nurture. It calls me to continue listening more deeply, serving more faithfully, and leading more collaboratively. It challenges me to keep building bridges—between government and communities, between policy and practice, and most importantly, among people.

As we move forward, I carry this recognition with humility and renewed commitment. The journey of volunteerism continues, and I remain grateful for every hand that has joined mine along the way. Together, we will keep working toward an agricultural future that is inclusive, sustainable, and grounded in peace—one relationship, one community, and one shared purpose at a time.