Filipino Scholar urges fresh look at agrarian reform at international conference in Colombia

The Evolution of Filipino Scholarship A Cebuano Scholar's Call to Action on Agrarian Reform and Pro-Poor Food Systems

I had the privilege of attending an international conference in Colombia, which brought together over 400 academics and rural advocates. This major UN-facilitated multilateral forum provided a platform for discussing pressing global issues related to land, life, and society.

My co-authored paper, Food Regimes and Radical Movements in Agrarian Change An Invitation for Rethinking the Agrarian Question in the Philippines, was presented at the conference. This paper aimed to provide a fresh perspective on agrarian reform and pro-poor food systems in the context of the Philippines. As a Cebuano scholar, I am deeply concerned about the ongoing struggles faced by Filipino farmers and rural communities.

The journey to this point has not been easy. It has required dedication and perseverance from countless individuals who have worked tirelessly to promote agrarian reform and pro-poor food systems in our country. From pioneers of peasant movements to current scholars, researchers, and advocates, their collective efforts have shaped our understanding of the agrarian question in the Philippines.

Despite these advances, there is still much work to be done. The challenges faced by Filipino farmers and rural communities are complex and multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive approach that addresses not only economic but also social and environmental dimensions of agrarian reform.

The conference provided an opportunity for me to share my research findings with international scholars and practitioners. It was enlightening to learn about similar initiatives being implemented in other parts of the world and identify potential areas of collaboration and knowledge sharing.

As a scholar, I am committed to continuing this work. By urging a fresh look at agrarian reform and pro-poor food systems, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

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