With the goal of amplifying networks, nurturing innovations, and creating economic breakthroughs in the agriculture sector, the 8th Bicol Agri Summit concluded its four-day run from June 25 to 28, 2025 at the Robinsons Place Naga Atrium, spearheaded by the Camarines Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc., in partnership with the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur and the Department of Agriculture – Bicol.
Carrying the theme “Amplifying Networks, Nurturing Innovations, and Economic Breakthrough,” the summit gathered over 80 exhibitors who showcased a diverse array of agricultural and non-agricultural products, modern farming technologies, and services that support the growth and sustainability of the agriculture sector in the Bicol Region.
Exhibitors also welcomed the opportunity to showcase their innovations to a broader audience. Angelo Bien of BFAR Region 5, who joined the summit for the first time, shared how the venue opened doors to wider consumer engagement.
“Bale meron kaming displays at mga binibenta, mostly mga seafood products like tuyo and boneless bangus, may mga ornamental fish din, meron din for farming like hito na naka-display sa booth namin. Actually, ayos nga itong place kasi nasa mall, maraming target consumers, kaya malaking advantage din yun para maipakita namin sa ibang mga tao na hindi masyado nag-e-engage sa agriculture,” he noted.
The activity brought together local farming communities, agribusiness stakeholders, and policy advocates in a collaborative effort to explore innovative strategies and strengthen multi-sectoral partnerships aimed at transforming agriculture across the region.
Smith Chang Jr., Chairperson of the 8th Bicol Agri Summit, underscored the significance of the event in pushing the sector forward.
“Ginagawa natin ito to augment yung mga ginagawa nila, and we’re also inviting exhibitors for us to learn new technologies, to innovate the agriculture sector para mas mapalawak at mapagana natin yung ani, and, at the same time, to encourage other businesses to venture in agriculture,” he shared.
Attendees likewise expressed appreciation for the summit’s informative sessions and learning opportunities. Joel Rosela, a former OFW turned agripreneur from Tinambac, Camarines Sur, shared that his visit to the summit proved worthwhile.
“Sulit naman po yung paglaan ko ng oras dito dahil nga may natutunan ako sa seminar at sa mga exhibitors na magagamit ko po sa aking pinagkakakitaan, and yun po ay napakahalaga. Bumili rin po ako ng iba pang mga gamit para sa aking negosyo na Babuyan at hito farming,” he said.
One of the summit’s key features was “Anong Kwentong Agri Mo?”, a competition where participants submitted short-form videos or reels that narrated stories of innovation, resilience, or breakthrough ideas in the agriculture sector. The creative entries aimed to inspire new approaches to agri-development, especially among the younger generation.
Chang also encouraged public participation, noting how valuable the experience was for those who attended.
“Pag pumunta po kayo rito, you will learn a lot kasi coming here, listening to all experts, panalo na kayo. We do this kasi hinahanapan natin ng solusyon. This 4-day summit, each day is a highlight, every day may matututunan po tayo,” he noted.
The summit wrapped up with knowledge-sharing sessions, exhibits, and interactive discussions, all aimed at empowering the agricultural community and promoting sustainable innovation in the region.
