The international partners of the Sugar Industry Foundation, Inc. (SIFI) — Nestlé, American Sugar Refining Group, Inc., and Proforest – visited SIFI’s Special programs in Northern Negros Occidental from April 13-17, 2026.
The annual visit allowed the SIFI Special Projects team to showcase its program implementation to the partners, and its existing collaboration with agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs), planters’ associations (PAs), and other institutions.
Throughout the duration of the partners’ visit, field works and training sessions were conducted. They were able to see the progress of the demo farms, vegetable gardens, as well as converse with ARBO and PA representatives.
The SIFI Special Projects Partners were also able to join just in time for the RSS ChAMPs Periodic Meeting. Attended by 21 representatives from 14 ARBOs and 1 PA, the meeting gave an opportunity for the ChAMPs to share their achievements and community efforts in the past two years since formation. Using printed photos, the ChAMPs shared with the visiting Partners their experiences and impacts in the farm, starting from echoing sessions to supporting farmers transition into regenerative agriculture.
The ChAMPs, during the presentation of the highlights, have shown confidence in speaking in English – a positive output gained from the trainings and sessions from the SIFI Special Projects.
Nestlé, American Sugar Refining Group, Inc., and Proforest were delighted of the partnerships with various institutions and local government units. They aim to further expand the anti-child labor campaign to other barangays.
With the ongoing crisis in Negros Occidental, the SIFI Special Projects Partners remain committed to further support programs that will improve farmers’ productivity, protect workers health and safety.
