Launched in 2017 in Bukidnon, Project Silk was created to support corn farmers in enhancing their livelihoods through the establishment of inclusive, long-term partnerships focused on entrepreneurship and market access. Since its inception, the program has expanded to include Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental.
In a continued effort to uplift local agriculture, Pilmico and Aboitiz Foundation have partnered with the Iligan City Government to boost the local corn value chain by enhancing post-harvest infrastructure for yellow corn farmers in the region.
Enabling Better Harvests with Post-Harvest Infrastructure
At the core of the project is the construction of a PHP1.5 million corn dryer facility that will directly benefit corn farmers from the hinterland barangays of Mandulog, Digkilaan, Rogongon, Dulag, Hindang, Kabacsanan, Bunawan, and Mainit. By reducing the moisture content of the corn, the facility will help prevent spoilage, enable safer storage, and support earlier and more efficient harvests—ultimately improving quality and marketability.
These farmers, now organized under the newly formed Iligan Agriculture Cooperative, will not only receive critical infrastructure but also improved access to buyers, services, and long-term opportunities for livelihood growth.
“This partnership is a testament to what can be achieved when the government, private sector, and community come together with a common purpose—to uplift our farmers and strengthen the agricultural value chain,” said Engr. Alexis Revantad, Vice President for Operations at Pilmico.“Together, we work toward sustainably feeding Asia’s growth, from mill to meal.”
Project Silk: A Growing Movement
The initiative is part of Project Silk, Pilmico’s inclusive agribusiness program launched in 2017 in Bukidnon. Originally designed as a buy-back program for yellow corn, Project Silk has since evolved into a holistic model that supports local farmers through inclusive sourcing, capability-building, and long-term livelihood support.
With the addition of this post-harvest facility, the program has grown into a comprehensive support system for farmers, spanning production, entrepreneurship, quality assurance, and market integration, while continuing to expand its reach and impact across Mindanao.
“With limited government resources, partnerships like this with Pilmico make a big difference,” said Hon. Frederick W. Siao, City Mayor of Iligan. “This project may start small, but with success and continued support, it has the potential to grow into something transformative for our farmers. Together, we are creating opportunities, building markets, and paving the way for a stronger agricultural future in Iligan City.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Project Silk Iligan Post-Harvest Support?
Project Silk Iligan Post-Harvest Support is a Yellow Corn Agri-entrepreneurship initiative launched by Pilmico, the food and agribusiness subsidiary of Aboitiz Foods, in partnership with the Iligan City Government. Its primary goal is to provide vital infrastructure and support for yellow corn farmers in the region.
What is the importance of the corn dryer facility?
The corn dryer facility will improve corn quality by reducing moisture, allowing for safe storage, preventing spoilage, and enabling earlier, more efficient harvests.
Who will directly benefit from this facility?
Farmers from the hinterland barangays of Mandulog, Digkilaan, Rogongon, Dulag, Hindang, Kabacsanan, Bunawan, and Mainit will benefit directly. They’ve recently formed the Iligan Agriculture Cooperative.
Who are the key partners in this initiative?
The key partners are Pilmico Foods Corporation (an Aboitiz Foods company), Aboitiz Foundation Inc., and the Iligan City Government.
What is Project Silk?
Project Silk is a program Pilmico launched in 2017 in Bukidnon. It aims to empower yellow corn farmers through inclusive sourcing, capability-building, and long-term livelihood support.
