iKalinga farmer is Top 3 in national search for outstanding rural women

Tabuk City, Kalinga - Wilma C. Alvester, a dedicated farmer from Tabuk City, Kalinga, was hailed as the top 3 of the prestigious National Search for Outstanding Rural Women (SORW) 2025. 

The SORW, launched by the DA in 2003, is an annual event recognizing Filipino rural women who exemplify excellence and make outstanding accomplishments towards agri-fishery sector development, creating impact not only within their families but also for members in their communities. 

This year, the event’s awarding ceremony was conducted on March 28 at the Bureau of Soils and Water Management in Quezon City. Participants of the event were adjudged on various criteria such as contribution to food security/agricultural and fishery development; contribution to sustainable development and use of climate-resilient or environment/women-friendly technologies; and impact on rural women. 

There are 13 national SORW nominees nationwide, and Wilma is Cordillera’s bet for the said search, eventually making it to third place.   

Who is Wilma C. Alvester? 

As cited by the DA, Wilma owns and operates a 2.75-hectare farm in Barangay Tanglag, Tabuk City, where she grows palay, corn, fruits, and vegetables. 

Demonstrating leadership and innovation, Wilma proposed and led the implementation of the "BAbae Livelihood Accelerating Cassava Opportunity (BALANGKOY)," a P3.24-million project funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). 

The BALANGKOY is a solar-powered processing facility where various cassava-based products are made. These include flour, starch, chips, and miki noodles. 

Earlier this year, her exemplary efforts made her the winner of SORW in Cordillera, paving the way for her to represent the region at the national level. 

As the top 3 in the national search, Wilma was awarded P90,000.00 in cash by the DA. In addition to the prize money, Wilma will also receive agricultural interventions from the DA-Regional Field Office CAR in the coming days.

“Thank you so much to all who supported me during my venture in achieving this recognition. My family and siblings who are always with me… I was not able to bring the crown, but having your appreciation and congratulations, I've garnered 3rd place as National Outstanding Women among the 13 regions nationwide; my heart is full of happiness,” the iKalinga woman farmer posted on her Facebook page after receiving the award.