Meet Brenda Avelino, a name that might not ring a bell yet, but one that is making waves in root crop production and trading. Together with her husband, Alejandro Magos, Brenda has emerged as a key player in the industry, particularly in the cultivation and distribution of sweet potatoes (NSIC SP 30, 25, 35, and 36) and taro, with the technical guidance and support of PhilRootcrops, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.
When the pandemic hit, Brenda saw an opportunity amidst the crisis. Before, she and Alejandro were involved in selling food snacks within their community. However, a turning point came when a relative offered to sell them a surplus of taro harvest, sparking their journey into root crop farming. The success of this venture led to further expansion, with Brenda and Alejandro purchasing sweet potato cuttings, acquiring additional land for cultivation, financing other farmers in their locality, and putting up a nursery for NSIC-recommended varieties. Their next project in mind is a land tractor.
Their perseverance paid off as they began supplying fresh produce not only in their local market in Dulag, Leyte, but also in regions as far-reaching as Samar, Southern Leyte, and even Manila. The growing demand for sweet potatoes in Luzon prompted Brenda to extend her support to 120 farmers within Dulag, despite operating independently.
Brenda's approach to farming goes beyond mere commercialism; she emphasizes the value of every produce. Even those deemed unmarketable are repurposed into homemade goods and snacks, instilling a culture of resourcefulness within her family. Her children are actively involved in the business, learning essential skills in entrepreneurship and resilience.
For Brenda, success in farming is not just about hard work but also about effective time management and family support. With Alejandro and their children lending a hand on the farm, Brenda can balance her responsibilities while enjoying quality time with her family. This newfound stability has enabled them to indulge in recreational activities and create lasting memories together.
As a woman in agriculture, Brenda defies stereotypes and believes that dedication knows no gender. She sees motherhood—being a mother of seven—not as a hindrance but as a source of motivation to excel. Her message is clear: success is attainable through relentless effort and a steadfast commitment to one's goals.
In Brenda Avelino, we find not just a farmer entrepreneur but a trailblazer, empowering women and redefining the landscape of root crop farming one harvest at a time.
TRIVIA: Did you know that Brenda Avelino’s father-in-law was also awarded as the Kamote King in Leyte? Brenda must have been destined to be one too!
Written by: Jeanie Rose S. Deluza