Good and Green
The Good and Green Podcast, hosted by sustainability advocate Chit Juan, was created for the purpose of helping social entrepreneurs overcome challenges and grow impactful ventures that drive meaningful change. Each week, we share the tools, strategies, and stories that empower changemakers to build businesses with purpose. Whether you're launching your dream social enterprise or looking for fresh inspiration, this podcast is your go-to space for practical insights and uplifting conversations. Let's create a brighter, more sustainable future together!
Episode 49: The Big Reasons Filipino Food Research Matters Today with Ige Ramos
As Good and Green continues its celebration of Filipino Food Month, this second special episode goes deeper into the stories behind what we eat. Chit Juan sits down with independent food scholar and book designer Ige Ramos to explore how decades of fieldwork, writing, and cultural research shaped his understanding of Filipino foodways. Their conversation touches on ethical food writing, the value of traveling and listening deeply, how data can help shape better food policies, and why Filipino food should never be boxed into one “correct” definition. This episode is a thoughtful reminder that preserving our food heritage starts with...
Episode 48: This Is What Makes Filipino Food Truly Filipino with Felice Sta. Maria
Filipino food tells the story of who we are, and there’s no better time to reflect on that than during Filipino Food Month. In this episode of Good and Green, Chit Juan sits down with cultural heritage worker and food historian Felice Prudente Sta. Maria to explore the roots of Filipino cuisine, from pre-colonial ingredients and food traditions to the ways colonial influences were transformed into something distinctly our own. Their conversation delves into what authenticity truly means in Filipino cuisine, why our culinary identity has long been shaped by adaptation, and how supporting local and artisanal food to...
Episode 47: The Best Sustainability Habits Start At Home with Badjie and Bea Trinidad
Sustainability becomes more powerful when it is passed down through generations. Chit Juan sits down with Badjie and Bea Trinidad, daughter and granddaughter of zero-waste pioneer Annie Guerrero, to talk about how one woman’s practical, disciplined way of living became a lasting family legacy. From the founding of CCA Manila to embedding green practices into culinary education and everyday life, this conversation explores how sustainability can be taught, lived, and shared across generations. It’s a moving reminder that when values are rooted in family, they can shape schools, communities, and the next generation of changemakers.
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Episode 46: Community First Is The Heart Of Sustainable Food with Gel Salonga-Datu
As part of our Women’s Month series highlighting impactful women in sustainability, Chit Juan sits down with Pastry Chef Gel Salonga-Datu of Ted’s Hospitality Group and the Slow Food Community Laguna. Chef Gel shares how reviving heirloom recipes, supporting local farmers and artisans, and organizing the Sa Pantalan Food and Heritage Festival helped build a thriving community around Laguna’s food culture. Her journey from finance professional to pastry chef and community organizer shows how collaboration, patience, and trust can strengthen local food systems and create new opportunities for producers while preserving culinary heritage.
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Episode 45: Sustainability Is the Future of Luxury Tourism with Janet Oquendo
Luxury means nothing without nature. In this episode, Chit Juan speaks with Janet Oquendo, General Manager of Banwa Private Island, about returning home to Palawan after decades of opening world-class resorts across Morocco, Venice, Turkey, Bhutan, and beyond. From protecting thriving reefs to building a culture of environmental care within her team, Janet shares how true luxury eco-tourism is not about excess, but about preservation, partnership with local communities, and honoring the land that makes it all possible.
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A native Palaweña, Janet Oquendo’s career is a tes...
Episode 44: Why Values Matter More Than Speed in Business Growth with Butz Bartolome
What does it really take to build a business that lasts for decades? In this episode of Good and Green, Chit Juan sits down with franchising pioneer Armando “Butz” Bartolome to unpack how entrepreneurship has evolved and why values, credibility, and responsibility matter more than ever. Drawing from over 35 years of mentoring Filipino entrepreneurs, Butz shares insights on balancing speed with caution, using technology wisely, and building businesses that serve both people and communities. This conversation is a grounded reminder that growth means little without purpose.
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Armando Bartolome is a...
Episode 43: How One Mom Chemist Built A Better Cacao Business with Mel Medrano
What started as a simple search for a healthier chocolate drink for her children became something much bigger. In this episode, Chit Juan sits down with chemist and entrepreneur Melanie “Mel” Medrano, founder of Cacaomistry, to talk about how science, motherhood, and sustainability came together to create a Filipino origin based cacao brand rooted in clean ingredients, local sourcing, and social impact.
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Melanie Medrano is a chemist, entrepreneur, and chocolate maker, and the founder of Gramworth Enterprises Inc., a family-owned social enterprise behind PhOligo and Cacaomistry — the Philippines' first...
Episode 42: Why Starting Small Is the Most Beautiful Way to Farm with Turo Tolentino and Andrea Alforte
Chit Juan sits down with the co-founders of ARTFARM Sustainable Solutions to explore how a small family-run farm in Bay, Laguna evolved into a certified organic and Slow Food-recognized enterprise. From surviving a natural disaster to building a regenerative, technology-enabled, and community-driven farming model, this conversation offers insight into resilience, innovation, and how sustainable farming can create both livelihood and impact.
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ARTFARM was co-founded in 2011 by Turo Tolentino and Andrea Alforte as a small-scale farming venture that evolved from hydroponics into a certified organic, regenerative agriculture enterprise specializing...
Episode 41: Inspiring Habits for a More Fulfilling New Year with Chit Juan
In this New Year episode, Chit Juan shares a gentle reflection on welcoming 2026 with intention and purpose. She talks about simple ways we can shift our habits, broaden our experiences, and make the coming year more meaningful for ourselves and others. This short conversation is an invitation to start the year with clarity, curiosity, and a renewed sense of what it means to live good and green.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
Welcoming the new year with intention and mindful habits.Exploring meaningful ways to care for our health and well-being.Finding in...Episode 40: Creating a Greener Holiday Through the Gift of Time with Chit Juan
In this Christmas episode, Chit Juan reflects on the meaning of giving during the holidays and invites listeners to revisit the idea of presents beyond material gifts. She talks about offering the gift of time, creating a “job jar” of thoughtful favors, sharing causes and advocacies, and finding moments to be truly present with the people who matter. Chit reminds us that time is finite, but choosing how we give it can create deeper connections, greater purpose, and a more meaningful Christmas for ourselves and others.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
Why time i...Episode 39: Organic Solutions Bringing New Hope to Filipino Farmers with Marco SchlĂĽter
Organic farming is gaining new momentum in Southeast Asia, and the Philippines is beginning to feel that shift.Â
Chit Juan talks with Marco SchlĂĽter, Director for Strategy and International Affairs at Naturland, about how organic markets emerge, what helps farmers transition successfully, and why restaurants and retailers play a crucial role in expanding access to organic products. Marco draws from decades of global experience, including his work with IFOAM, to explain the systems, training, and verification models that support sustainable agriculture. He also offers practical starting points for Filipinos who want to make organic part of th...
Episode 38: How To Balance Geotourism And Environmental Protection with Ann Dumaliang
In this episode of Good and Green, host Chit Juan speaks with Ann Dumaliang of the Masungi Georeserve Foundation about the delicate balance between nature conservation and human activity. Ann shares how the Masungi team transformed a once-threatened landscape into a thriving model for geotourism, reforestation, and environmental protection. She and Chit discuss the importance of building systems—not just trails—to protect over 3,000 hectares of critical land in Rizal. From dealing with encroachers to designing nature-based experiences, Ann reminds us that true sustainability is not just about planting trees—it’s about stewardship, collaboration, and protecting ecosystems for generati...
Episode 37: Crafting A Roadmap To True Food Security And Sustainability with Christian Schmidradner
Chit Juan talks with sustainability and supply chain leader Christian Schmidradner about ten years of the Philippine Sustainability Movement and how it all started with Sustainable Seafood Week. Christian shares how his work in traceable seafood supply chains led to a nationwide campaign for responsible sourcing and collaboration among government, business, and communities. He explains the importance of certifications, the impact of bycatch, and why sustainability is a continuous journey that begins with awareness. The conversation also highlights the movement’s growth beyond seafood — now including organic farming, plastic reduction, animal welfare, and food waste solutions.
Episode 36: Fearless OFW Brews a New Beginning After Setbacks with Anatista Perez
What does it take to leave a stable career abroad and rebuild life from the ground up back home? In this inspiring episode, Chit Juan talks to Anatista Perez, a former OFW and civil engineer who returned to the Philippines to build Don Narciso Café-Restaurant in Claveria, Misamis Oriental. From failed ventures to finding purpose in coffee, Anatista shares how she turned setbacks into stepping stones and built a thriving business rooted in community and sustainability. Her story is a testament to resilience, continuous learning, and the power of going back to one’s roots to grow something mea...
Episode 35: From OFW Life To Legacy Builder In The World Of Coffee with Imelda Dagus
In celebration of National Coffee Month, this October series of Good and Green episodes features inspiring stories from Filipino coffee advocates and entrepreneurs. In this episode, Chit Juan sits down with Imelda Dagus, founder and CEO of Dennis Coffee Garden, the first heritage coffeehouse brand rooted in the Kahawa Sug tradition of the Sulu Archipelago. Imelda shares how she transformed her family’s 1962 coffee legacy into a thriving business that uplifts farmers, preserves Tausug culture, and empowers communities. From her years as an OFW to becoming a cultural entrepreneur, Imelda reflects on legacy, sustainability, and the power of coming ho...
Episode 34: Regenerative Farming is the New Success Formula with Nicolo Aberasturi
How do we bring dead soil back to life?
In this episode, sustainability advocate Chit Juan sits down with Nicolo Aberasturi, President of Banhaw Agriculture and a longtime champion of regenerative farming in the tropics. Together, they unpack how small farms can thrive by working with nature — not against it — and how compost, ruminants, and indigenous wisdom all play a role in soil health and food security. Whether you’re a landowner, a backyard gardener, or a budding agri-preneur, this episode will show you how regenerative farming can be a powerful, scalable, and deeply Filipino solution.
Episode 33: The Critical Need for Safer Food Now with Michael Melendres
What does it take to scale organic farming from a single farm to a million kilos of produce annually? In this episode of the Good and Green Podcast, Chit Juan talks to Mike Melendres, founder of Organic Options, Earthman, and Biotech JP. From a modest farm in 2001 to a vertically integrated business promoting food safety, farmer training, and agricultural innovation, Mike shares how his journey has stayed rooted in his core values of health, sustainability, and impact. Whether it’s helping smallholder farmers shift to organic practices or introducing low-calorie, low-protein rice through Japanese fermentation technology, Mike proves that go...
Episode 32: Sowing the Seeds of Food Security in the Philippines with Julius Barcelona
Seeds are at the heart of farming and food security. In this episode of the Good and Green Podcast, host Chit Juan talks with Julius Barcelona, Chief Operating Officer of Harbest Agribusiness Corporation and Vice President of the Philippine Seed Industry Association. Julius explains why seeds are the foundation of agriculture, the differences between open-pollinated, hybrid, and transgenic seeds, and why vegetable consumption in the Philippines remains so low. He also shares insights on hydroponics, the challenges and opportunities in the food value chain, and how young people can find both purpose and profit in agriculture.
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Episode 31: Changing Mindsets to Make Farm-to-Table Work in the Philippines with Carlo Aguilar
Chit Juan sits down with Carlomagno “Carlo the Farmer” Aguilar to talk about how growing your own food can change both consumer and farmer mindsets, reduce waste, and make farm-to-table truly work in the Philippines. Carlo shares his mission to localize food production, empower communities, and bring fresh, sustainable food closer to home. From backyard gardens to island-to-island farming solutions, he explains how anyone can start small and make a big impact. This episode is filled with practical tips, inspiring stories, and a vision for a future where every Filipino household can access fresh, healthy food.
Episode 30: How To Make Good, Clean, And Fair Food A Lifestyle with Reena Gamboa
Chit Juan speaks with Reena Gamboa about the vibrant and growing Slow Food movement in the Philippines. Reena shares how her community’s deep-rooted pride in Ilonggo food culture laid the foundation for their leadership role in hosting Terra Madre Asia and the Pacific, a biennial event gathering farmers, chefs, food advocates, and producers from across the region and beyond.
Reena gives us a preview of what to expect at the event: earth markets, educational exhibits, taste workshops, talks, and international collaboration—all anchored on the Slow Food principles of good, clean, and fair food. She also disc...
Episode 29: How To Grow More With Less With Regenerative Farming with Al Linsangan
What happens when a photographer trades the ocean for the land? In this episode of the Good and Green Podcast, Chit Juan sits down with Al Linsangan III, environmental photographer turned regenerative farmer, sustainability advocate, and founder of Coron Natural Farms. Al shares how his journey from scuba diving and ecotourism led him to conservation agriculture, farm-based education, and community development. Listeners will learn how his sustainable mindset guides his efforts to promote biodiversity, food security, and climate resilience in Palawan and beyond.
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Al Linsangan III is a social entrepreneur, environmental...
Episode 28: How To Upcycle Your Way From Artist To Changemaker with Bernadette "BidiBidi" delos Santos
What happens when art, agriculture, and social good come together? In this episode, Chit Juan talks with Bernadette “BidiBidi” delos Santos, artist, entrepreneur, and farmer-leader from Bicol. Through her vibrant upcycled fashion brand, BidiBidi empowers over 150 rural women with embroidery skills while promoting sustainability and Filipino culture. She also shares her work as RAFC Chair, giving voice to farmers and fisherfolk in national policy-making. It’s a powerful story of creativity, community, and change stitched together with purpose.
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BidiBidi is a passionate social entrepreneur, artist, and volunteer farmer leader...
Episode 27: The Quest To Bring Filipino Weaves To The World Stage with Anya Lim
Chit Juan speaks with Anya Lim, co-founder of ANTHILL Fabric Gallery, about how she’s preserving Filipino weaving traditions through sustainable fashion and community enterprise. Anya shares how ANTHILL empowers artisans—especially women—by providing market access, entrepreneurial training, and circular design opportunities. She also opens up about the challenges of running a social enterprise, including navigating the pandemic and addressing issues like fabric counterfeiting, while staying rooted in cultural heritage and purpose-driven work.
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Anya Lim is the co-founder of ANTHILL Fabric Gallery, a pioneering social enterprise that champi...
Episode 26: Empower Fisherfolk to Spark a Powerful Ocean Revival with Gloria Estenzo Ramos
How can we protect the oceans that feed us and empower the coastal communities that rely on them?
In this episode of the Good and Green Podcast, Chit Juan speaks with Attorney Gloria Estenzo Ramos, co-founder of the Philippine Earth Justice Center and former Vice President of Oceana Philippines. Atty. Ramos shares her decades-long mission to protect the Philippines' marine ecosystems and fight for the rights of small-scale fisherfolk. From the importance of the 15-kilometer municipal waters policy to the use of technology in tracking illegal fishing, this conversation reveals how law, science, and community engagement work...
Episode 25: Fight for Marine Life This Month of the Ocean with Anna Oposa
How do we protect our oceans while empowering the next generation of advocates?Â
In this inspiring episode, Chit Juan speaks with Anna Oposa, Chief Mermaid and co-founder of Save Philippine Seas, about her 14-year journey in marine conservation. Anna shares how education, storytelling, and community partnerships fuel her advocacy work, and why empowering young leaders is key to long-term impact. From climate education and waste workshops to saving sharks and changing policy, Anna reminds us that everyone has a role to play in protecting our seas.
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Anna R. Oposa i...
Episode 24: Fuel Your Social Enterprise With a Powerful Ecosystem with Chit Juan
Building a social enterprise isn’t just about having a great product or mission. It’s about creating the right environment for that mission to grow. In this episode, Chit Juan shares why social entrepreneurs need ecosystems made up of nonprofits, local governments, and private sector allies. Drawing from her experience with ECHOstore and the Great Women Project, she explains how collaboration, market access, and aligned values can help build sustainable impact. Whether you’re launching a small startup or growing a grassroots initiative, this episode offers practical insight on how to thrive through partnership and purpose.
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Episode 23: Start Small To Make Your Farming Dreams Come True with Sarah Claudio
When entrepreneur Sarah Claudio left behind a thriving retail career to revive her late mother’s unfinished farm project, she didn’t expect it to spark a whole new mission. In this episode she shares with Chit Juan how Verdeli Davao was born as an agritourism destination and learning site that brings sustainable food systems to life through natural farming, community collaboration, and experiential education. She also shares how she integrates her Slow Food training, navigates the challenges of small-scale farming, and inspires others to grow their own food even with just one square meter of space.
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Episode 22: Empower Your SME To Take Bold Climate Action Now with George Wade
What does it really mean to track your carbon footprint, and how can small businesses take meaningful steps toward sustainability? In this episode, Chit Juan speaks with George Wade, co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Zevero, a carbon management platform that helps organizations measure, reduce, and report their emissions with confidence. George shares why understanding your environmental impact is like balancing your finances, how even SMEs can take smart steps toward decarbonization, and what inspired him to build a startup that spans the globe. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on climate action, data, and building partnerships that matter.<...
Episode 21: The Future of Sustainability Lies in Strong Community Partnerships with Zarah Juan
Sustainable fashion is more than just a trend. It’s a movement that creates lasting economic and social impact. Chit Juan sits down with designer and social entrepreneur Zarah Juan to explore how her brand blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design while empowering Filipino artisans. From her early days as a flight attendant to becoming a champion of responsible sourcing, Zarah shares how collaboration, upcycling, and cultural appreciation play a key role in her business. She also reveals how sustainability goes beyond materials and design, influencing business decisions that benefit both people and the planet.
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Episode 20: The Important Role of Sustainable Fashion in Uplifting Communities with Reese Fernandez - Ruiz
How can a social enterprise stay resilient for nearly two decades?Â
In this episode, Chit Juan speaks with Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, co-founder of R2R (Rags2Riches), about her journey in sustainable fashion and ethical entrepreneurship. Reese shares how R2R started by supporting artisans in Payatas and evolved into a fully integrated fashion brand. She discusses the pivots, challenges, and lessons learned in building a business that uplifts Filipino artisans while staying profitable and impactful.
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Reese Fernandez-Ruiz is the co-founder and president of R2R (Rags2R...
Episode 19: How Digital Technology Drives Growth in Agriculture with Henry James Sison
How can digital technology revolutionize farm-to-market systems?Â
Chit Juan sits down with Henry James Sison, founder of AgroDigital PH, to discuss how his agritech startup is transforming small-scale farming into a scalable and sustainable business. With over 38,000 farmers and fishers in their network, AgroDigital is helping producers achieve price stability, improve market access, and adopt better agricultural practices. Henry shares his journey from IT professional to farmer and explains why technology is key to the future of Philippine agriculture.
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Henry James Sison is an IT professional turned agripreneur, leveraging h...
Episode 18: The 4 Core Principles Of Building A Successful Social Enterprise with Chit Juan
Chit Juan explores the essential elements that make a social enterprise sustainable and impactful. She reflects on how corporate social responsibility (CSR) has evolved and why social entrepreneurs must go beyond philanthropy to create long-lasting change. Listeners will gain insights into the key factors that drive a purpose-driven business, from ensuring financial viability to making a meaningful social and environmental impact.
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How corporate social responsibility has shaped the rise of social entrepreneurshipThe key factors that make a social enterprise sustainable and impactfulWhy balancing purpose and profit is crucial for long-term su...Episode 17: Starting Green Ventures for a Better Tomorrow with Chit Juan
This episode explores how aspiring entrepreneurs can build socially responsible and environmentally sound businesses without compromising profitability. Chit Juan shares practical strategies to align one's passions with ethical practices and financial sustainability, offering valuable insights for success in a competitive landscape.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
How to evaluate business ideas with sustainability tests.The importance of passion in shaping entrepreneurial success.Practical steps to align profits with ethical and environmental responsibility.QUOTES:
Every business must make a profit. That's why it's called business.Whatever we do must not be at th...Episode 17: Starting Green Ventures for a Better Tomorrow with Chit Juan
This episode explores how aspiring entrepreneurs can build socially responsible and environmentally sound businesses without compromising profitability. Chit Juan shares practical strategies to align one's passions with ethical practices and financial sustainability, offering valuable insights for success in a competitive landscape.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
How to evaluate business ideas with sustainability tests.The importance of passion in shaping entrepreneurial success.Practical steps to align profits with ethical and environmental responsibility.
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Episode 16: A Stronger Focus on Social Entrepreneurship In 2025 with Chit Juan
Chit Juan kicks off 2025 with a heartfelt reflection on the growth of the Good and Green podcast since its launch in July 2024. She shares highlights from memorable episodes and expresses gratitude to listeners for their feedback and support. Chit also announces an exciting update for the podcast, which will now focus on helping social entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of building sustainable and impactful ventures. Listeners can look forward to inspiring stories, practical advice, and actionable solutions that align with the podcast’s core values of sustainability, innovation, and positive global impact.
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Episode 15: How to Be Good and Green in 2025 with Chit Juan
Kickstart 2025 with small yet impactful steps toward a greener lifestyle. Host Chit Juan shares her personal tips and reflections for embracing sustainability in the new year. From decluttering to mindful choices, this episode is all about fostering habits that are good for both you and the planet.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
Chit’s practical tips for starting the year on a positive, sustainable noteDecluttering your home and workspace to invite fresh energyHealthy and mindful eating as part of a zero-waste journeyBeing intentional about what you bring into your homeEmbracing responsibility for yourself, your...Episode 14: Supercompost Solutions for Sustainable Waste Management with Olivia Puentespina
Chit Juan welcomes Olivia Puentespina to discuss the transformative power of composting for soil health, waste management, and sustainability in the Philippines. They explore how supercompost enriches our soil, discuss the environmental impact of composting, and share insights into Davao Thermo Biotech’s initiatives for businesses, households, and landfills. Olivia also offers practical tips for at-home composting and trash disposal.
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Maria Olivia Panaligan Puentespina is a driving force in sustainable agriculture and waste management, with a particular passion for composting. As President and CEO of Davao Thermo Biotech Co...
Episode 13: Sustainable Gift Ideas for a Greener Christmas with Chit Juan
Explore the art of sustainable gifting with Chit Juan, who shares mindful ideas for Christmas presents that minimize waste, support local communities, and foster meaningful connections. From eco-friendly packaging tips to creative ways of giving back, the episode highlights how thoughtful choices can spread joy while protecting the planet.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
Practical sustainable gift ideas for Christmas and other occasionsHow to minimize environmental impact with eco-friendly packagingCreative ways to "gift it forward" to strangers and causesThe importance of supporting local MSMEs through your purchasesWhy time and shared experiences are the most precious gi...Episode 12: Supporting Fisherfolk on the Path to Sustainability with Dhang Tecson
Chit Juan sits down with Dhang Tecson of Sinaya Seafood to explore the heart of sustainable seafood and responsible sourcing in the Philippines. Dhang shares her journey into sustainable practices, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities within local fishing communities. They discuss why some fisherfolk turn to illegal methods and the transformative impact of shifting to safer, eco-friendly approaches. Dhang also highlights the vital role of women in these communities and Sinaya Seafood's commitment to bringing lesser-known fish to the market, promoting marine conservation and a more sustainable future for our oceans. This is an insightful conversation for...
Episode 11: Organic Farming Basics: Get Your Farm Certified with Patrick Belisario
Chit Juan explores the essentials of organic farming with Patrick Belisario on this episode of the Good and Green Podcast. Patrick shares his journey into organic agriculture, discussing the differences between natural and organic farming and what it takes to transition from chemical-based to certified organic methods. Listeners will learn about regenerative agriculture and its benefits for soil health and ecosystem balance. Patrick also explains the organic certification process and offers insights into the growth of the Philippine organic movement, along with practical steps to make your farm both green and certified.
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