Ahunan Power Inc. and Prime Infra Foundation have launched a livelihood program in Pakil, Laguna to help farmers transition from subsistence agriculture to enterprise-based production.

The initiative focuses on mushroom cultivation and vermicomposting. It supports members of Punla Samahan ng mga Magsasaka ng Pakil, a community-based farmers’ organization.

The program, which forms part of the broader Tayo Na Pakil initiative, equips Punla members with technical and organizational skills to operate as a formal enterprise.

Farmers underwent study tours and experiential training covering organic agriculture, soil health, and seed selection.

They also strengthened their organizational structure to operate as a recognized farmers’ group.

Prime Infra Foundation Programs and Operations Head Bernadette Tan said the goal is to expand farmers’ income opportunities through sustainable practices.

“Through the program, we assisted Punla members in strengthening their skill set, expanding their knowledge into more sustainable livelihood opportunities,” Tan said.

Beyond cultivation, members learned to prepare and package mushroom-based products such as mushroom chicharon.

They also developed skills in producing vermicast, vermicompost, and oyster mushroom spawn.

With support from Ahunan and Prime Infra Foundation, Punla aims to establish a cultivation facility this year.

The group targets annual output of more than 10,000 kilograms of mushrooms, while also producing 500 kilograms each of vermicast and vermicompost.

Punla President Gregorio Kaharian expressed gratitude for the assistance.

“Kami po ay natutuwa sapagkat ‘yung tulong na inaasahan namin ay pinagkaloob na sa amin. Pinagkalooban kami ng lupang pinagtitirikan ng building, pinagkalooban ng building, ng laboratory, at nadagdag pa ‘yung opisina at isang transport vehicle. Ang aming target talaga, mapalago nang mapalago at maipakilala dito sa buong Laguna na mayroon kaming mushroom production, na from farmers,” he said.

The support package included land for the facility, a laboratory, an office space, and a transport vehicle.

These assets aim to help the group scale operations and expand market reach across Laguna.

The livelihood initiative aligns with Tayo Na Pakil, a community-centered development program.

As of end-2025, the program has supported thousands of Pakileños through projects in education, health, skills training, livelihood, culture, and community resilience.

Ahunan and Prime Infra position the livelihood effort as a parallel track to infrastructure development.

The approach links energy investment with local economic participation.

By organizing farmers into a structured enterprise and opening access to facilities and markets, the program aims to create steady income streams beyond traditional crop cycles.

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.