Village Connect
In the quiet town of Bataan, a mother’s simple backyard garden has blossomed into a thriving livelihood—thanks to her determination and the support of the SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) program, inspired by the legacy of SM Group founder Henry Sy, Sr.
Mercy Pacat, now the leader of the Ecobloom Farmers Association, was once a full-time homemaker, relying on her husband’s income as a driver. When the pandemic took her husband and left her as the sole provider for three children, she turned to what she had: a small backyard and an unshakable will to survive. What started as growing vegetables in recycled containers to feed her family soon became a bigger purpose.
Driven by a desire to learn more, Mercy joined the KSK program, which teaches modern and sustainable farming practices alongside financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills. The program—aligned with Henry Sy, Sr.’s vision to empower farmers and promote food security—has helped over 30,000 Filipinos find strength through agriculture.
“After KSK, our lives changed,” Mercy shared. “We’re in the garden every day. And it was a dream come true when we finally sold our produce at SM City Bataan. Before, we’d just pass by and wish for that chance.”
Since graduating from the program, the Ecobloom Farmers have expanded their planting area to 1,600 square meters and are now cultivating a wide range of organic crops such as tomatoes, chilis, root vegetables, and leafy greens. Their produce is sold within the community, to bulk buyers, and at the SM Weekend Market in Bataan—earning around P10,000 each weekend.
For Mercy, the true reward isn’t just the income but the values she’s gained: “What stayed with me were Mr. Sy’s principles—‘Work hard’ and ‘Social responsibility is important.’ These guide everything we do.”
These principles are reflected in the association’s commitment to organic farming, environmental sustainability, and community health. Mercy now supports her children’s education—one has already earned a college degree—and they’re even branching into food processing with chili garlic products.
From humble beginnings, Mercy and her team have not only changed their own lives—they’ve become a beacon of what’s possible through perseverance, purpose, and the power of a planted seed.
Catch the Ecobloom Farmers every weekend at SM City Bataan’s Weekend Market, and discover more about the KSK program at www.sm-foundation.org.
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