The Day I Talked with a Family of Passionate Farmers

Yesterday, I spent the afternoon talking with the family of a friend. At first, it was just five of us, her, her dad, and two other relatives. We talked about their lives, their past, and their struggles. They liked sharing stories, especially when I emphasized the importance of family relationships and home values. It was a light, fun conversation until more relatives joined and the topic shifted toward the government.

As someone who’s frustrated with how the government handles the economy, I shared some of my thoughts. I mentioned that I was against the way Department of Agriculture (DA) runs programs —without much context—because I feel that their programs don’t make a real impact on the lives of farmers (sustainability and profitability). They seem more like public shows (we care for farmers) than actual solutions (long term sustainability).

My friend then asked if I wanted to join their organization. I said I probably couldn’t, because my interests lie elsewhere. A few minutes later, one of the relatives—who had been quiet and listening—suddenly got agitated. He raised his voice, saying that I was against both the DA and their organization.

I was shocked. He said he’d been observing me since he arrived, and he thought I had disrespected them. I tried to explain my side, but he kept interrupting. Everyone was a bit tipsy—it was their barangay fiesta after all—so I stayed calm and decided not to push the argument. I thought, “Is this how I go out? Just because of a misunderstood conversation?”

Instead of reacting, I lowered my ego, kept my faith intact, and continued a separate conversation with a more chill relative. Eventually, that furious relative calmed down. We started talking about ways to uplift farmers and shared our frustrations about the system. He realized I wasn’t attacking them—I was just frustrated with how things were being run.

Later, that same relative approached me and apologized. Of course, I accepted it. I explained again that I didn’t disagree with their organization; I simply didn’t know much about it. We shook hands several times, and I assured them that I support their mission.

I told them I share the same goal—to help farmers—but I just believe in doing it differently. I want to enter the system, understand it deeply, and make the system need me—so that when I want something to change, I can have better control and influence, rather than just shouting from the outside.

In the end, we had a great talk about their business idea, which turned out to be closely related to my previous startup concept, “PanOs.” We exchanged ideas and ended the night with mutual respect and understanding. I went home feeling grateful—and alive.

1 Some people are willing to die for their cause. One relative asked me, “Are you willing to die for your beliefs?” I said no. He replied, “Then you’re not like Rizal.” For me, there’s a more strategic way to fight—without putting my life at the forefront.

2 Some people work for the government not for money, but for purpose. They dedicate their time and energy to improve lives even when there’s no compensation. That kind of passion is rare—and powerful.

3 Some people generate ideas and give them away because it’s part of their duty. I realized not everyone seeks credit; some just want to contribute.

4 When people get emotional, chill. Don’t contradict them even if you’re right. Especially when alcohol is involved—choose peace. Your ego might get bruised, but your safety and dignity remain intact.

5 Talking to strangers can open your eyes. It helps you understand real, community-level problems and how people think. It’s raw and unfiltered.

6 Lastly, I’m grateful to my friend. Even if she wasn’t beside me during the tension, that experience connected us in a more meaningful and purposeful way. I hope someday, the idea they shared and my PanOs vision will come together to make something real for the farmers.

That night reminded me that passion and perspective are both important. We fight different battles in different ways—but we’re all after the same thing: a better life for everyone.