About the Workshop
In the heart of Negros Occidental, 33 passionate individuals from the Nakalang-Padilla Farm Workers Association (NPFWA); a Fairtrade small sugar producer organisation in the Philippines along with their partner Alter Trade, gathered for a two-day workshop that would redefine their approach to farming. This wasn’t just any workshop—it was a deep dive into Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD), a crucial concept as global demands for sustainability soar, particularly with the new EU Regulation against deforestation on the horizon.
Driven by Fairtrade NAPP’s strategic commitment to assist producers in achieving HREDD compliance, this program was launched as part of the ISEAL-funded project in partnership with Fairtrade International and the HREDD Centre of Excellence Consortium.
The workshop sparked meaningful conversations around HREDD’s critical role in advancing compliance with legal standards and fostering a culture of sustainability within the sugar cane industry. Participants, ranging from farm workers to local youth, were not just learning—they were on a mission to transform their practices, ensuring their work protects both people and the planet.
From Stories to Action: Deepening Understanding and Commitment to HREDD
The workshop journey began with an exploration of the stories of rightsholders—farm workers from the NPFWA—whose struggles and aspirations painted a vivid picture of the socio-economic realities they face and the myriad challenges that shaped their daily lives. The discussion was more than just theoretical; it was a heartfelt call to action, urging everyone to recognize and respect the rights of these often-overlooked individuals.
With the foundations firmly laid, the next session opened up a doorway to the broader understanding of HREDD and the ISEAL Project where the participants were introduced to the core principles and frameworks that underpinned HREDD. The facilitator shared compelling stories, each narrative imbued with real-world implications, highlighting how these principles could help not only the local farming communities but the entire ecosystem they thrived within.
One of the most eye-opening sessions was on the Deeping Understanding of sugar cane value and supply chain. Even though it was foundational, it sparked critical insights, prompting participants to think about where they could implement HREDD practices. Awareness grew, along with a commitment to ethical and sustainable operations, as they recognized their roles in this critical narrative.
Creativity took center stage during the interactive group session on HREDD and Me where participants expressed what HREDD meant to them through drawings and reflections. This wasn’t just about understanding—it was about making HREDD a part of their lives, grounded in their unique cultural perspectives.
The workshop concluded with an Evaluation of the Participant’s Understanding of HREDD.” Through a blend of feedback and documentation, they articulated their newfound understanding, the insights they had gleaned, and the areas they believed could be further explored.
Key Insights
The two-day workshop revealed that sugar cane farm workers are increasingly aware of HREDD principles, recognizing the importance of protecting human rights and adopting sustainable practices for their communities’ well-being. While they see the potential of HREDD to enhance sustainability, productivity, and market access—particularly in light of stringent EU regulations—many still need comprehensive knowledge and training to fully comply. Workers are ready to embrace these practices, provided they receive adequate support from stakeholders.
A Transformative Experience
The feedbacks from the participants were overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the use of real-life storytelling and the collaborative atmosphere that allowed for rich peer engagement.
Overall, the workshop was not just a collection of teachings; it was a heartfelt exchange—an exploration of rights, responsibilities, and the power of shared understanding. It marked a positive shift toward a better understanding and implementation of HREDD among sugar cane farm workers, essential for their growth and alignment with International Regulatory Standards. The participants left with not only enhanced knowledge but also the determination to advocate for their communities and engage in sustainable practices, forever transformed by the stories shared and the connections forged.
What's Next
This is just the beginning. Fairtrade NAPP will continue with interactive workshops, training rightsholders to assess risks and develop solutions. Transparency and collaboration will be key as they share findings and strengthen partnerships. Together, they’re not just meeting regulations—they’re building a sustainable future.
