In a world increasingly challenged by food insecurity and malnutrition, the humble soybean emerges as a sustainable solution, bringing hope for better nutrition, food security, and livelihood opportunities. As nations strive to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those addressing zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), and decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), the soybean journey in Quirino stands as a compelling example of how local initiatives can align with global priorities.
In Quirino, the journey of soybeans is not just about farming; it is a testament to innovation, resilience, and community empowerment.
SOYA: A SEED of Change
The Quirino State University (QSU) has been at the forefront of soybean development, thanks to the visionary leadership of its project team and strategic funding from the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR). The journey began with a Php 5 million project focusing on Upscaling the Promotion and Commercialization of Soya Products in Quirino Province and has since grown into multiple initiatives that have brought immense benefits to the community.
At the heart of these efforts is the mission to integrate soybean into local food systems, improve the nutritional status of communities, and create sustainable livelihoods for farmers and entrepreneurs alike — a direct response to the pressing global challenges outlined in the SDGs.
Empowering Farmers with Knowledge
Farmers play a crucial role in the success of soybean initiatives. Through capacity-building programs, QSU has trained 60 farmers in the Package of Technology (POT) for soybean production. These farmers, in turn, became “Soya Siyentistas” — experts in the commodity — capable of sharing their knowledge and showcasing soybean farming as a viable alternative to traditional crops like rice and corn.
Demonstration farms established in collaboration with local cooperatives such as the Diffun Saranay Development Cooperative (DISADECO) provide practical learning experiences, inspiring more farmers to adopt soybean farming. Beyond planting, families of farmers are also trained in soybean processing, turning their harvests into valuable products, thus increasing household incomes and contributing to decent work and economic growth (SDG 8).
Nutrition for All: A Soybean Promise
One of the most compelling outcomes of the soybean initiatives is its contribution to improved nutrition, particularly for undernourished children — an urgent need under SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).
Research conducted by QSU’s College of Health Sciences revealed significant improvements in the nutritional status of preschoolers after consuming soybean-based products like soya milk, soya bread, and soya butterscotch. Programs in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Education (DepEd) have scaled up feeding initiatives, with soybean products serving as staple snack items for malnourished children.
The Quirino Young Entrepreneurs Association (QYEA), a key adopter of soybean products, supplies these nutrient-rich foods, generating over Php 3.4 million in sales from these programs alone. Such outcomes showcase the potential of soybean to address malnutrition while creating sustainable business opportunities.
Soybean Products: From Farm to Market
The soybean journey doesn’t end at the farm; it continues through a range of innovative, delicious, and marketable products. Through QSU’s soya processing laboratory, products like soya nuggets, soya butterscotch, soya nutri-chips, and soya bread varieties have been developed and commercialized.
Entrepreneurs trained by QSU are not just producing but also promoting these products in innovative ways. Despite restrictions during the pandemic, a partnership with the Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC) enabled radio-based demonstrations to reach wider audiences. Additionally, frontliners received soybean-based meals as part of promotional efforts, further showcasing the versatility and nutritional value of these products.
Building a Sustainable Ecosystem
Sustainability lies at the core of QSU’s soybean initiatives. With the establishment of a soybean processing laboratory and the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment like a water retort machine, the university ensures the continuity of product development. Partnerships with farmers’ cooperatives, government agencies, and entrepreneurs have created an integrated ecosystem that supports every stage of the soybean value chain.
After the project’s initial phase, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Maddela now relies on the Quirino Young Entrepreneurs Association (QYEA) for the consistent supply of soya products used in their feeding programs. Similarly, the Department of Education (DepEd) integrates these products into their school-based feeding initiatives. These partnerships have resulted in an impressive gross annual sale of Php 1.8 million, underscoring the economic viability and market potential of soybean-based products.
Farmers now have reliable markets for their produce, entrepreneurs gain access to technical training and resources, and consumers benefit from affordable, high-quality soybean products. This holistic approach not only contributes to improved nutrition but also ensures sustainable livelihoods and long-term economic growth for the community.
A Model for the Future
The soybean story in Quirino exemplifies how agricultural innovation can address pressing global challenges such as food security, malnutrition, and poverty. By aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2, SDG 3, and SDG 8, this initiative highlights the transformative potential of local efforts to create global impact.
Soybeans have proven to be more than just a crop in Quirino; they are a symbol of hope and resilience. Through these initiatives, the community is not just feeding its people but also empowering them, ensuring a healthier, more secure, and sustainable future for all.
Article and graphics: Dr. Arlyn J. Yra
