Adonis Reyes with freshly harvested brown eggs. (Adonis Reyes)
Adonis Reyes is a 27-year-old farmer from Camiling, Tarlac. Originally an elementary school teacher, he recognized the untapped business potential in agriculture, leading him to establish his own agribusiness. In this article, we will explore the valuable insights and practical tips that Adonis Reyes generously shares based on his personal journey in starting a goat and chicken egg farming business.
READ: Passion turned profit: Elementary teacher finds goat and chicken farming a profitable business
Changing perspectives on money
Adonis's first lesson came from his own financial struggles. “I didn't really know how to handle money before. I don’t have any savings,” he said. Understanding that mere saving of money is insufficient; instead, one must invest it wisely to generate returns.
“I did not have an entrepreneurial mindset before but when I realized that I have a lot of time to learn, I have a lot of time to invest in knowledge and learning,” he added. This realization paves the way for embracing the concept of seizing opportunities that can potentially bring in additional income, consequently unlocking new possibilities.
Overcoming negativity and taking risks
Adonis encountered skepticism from his relatives and witnessed how negativity can discourage others from pursuing their dreams. However, “I do not entertain those negative comments anymore. For me, if my business did not succeed, it means there is still something I can improve,” he said. “If you are not a risk taker and you are not determined about what you are planning, you will really give up easily.”
The determination to succeed and the ability to navigate challenges will propel oneself forward. “I always have a positive outlook in life. Our mistakes are stepping stones. As long as you don’t give, you will reach your goal,” Adonis said.
Market research and planning
Recognizing the significance of conducting thorough market research before initiating any venture, Adonis shares, “I don’t start chicken farming without a market. I first look at where to sell my products.” By securing a market first, he gained a better understanding of the business and could make informed decisions about farm upgrades and expansions.
Sustainable farming
In his chicken farming business, Adonis emphasized sustainability and cost-efficiency. He introduced natural food sources for his chickens, such as chopped vegetables, corn bran, and rice.
“The fruits and vegetables are sourced for free. All of the fruits and vegetables that are to be discarded and disposed of in the Camiling public market, we collect,” he said. “There is a lot of agricultural waste that is disposed of that can still be used as food for the chicken.”
He even collaborated with the local waste management office to collect discarded fruits and vegetables, which he used to feed his chickens. This approach not only reduced waste but also minimized expenses.
Maintaining cleanliness and preventing diseases
Adonis recognized the importance of maintaining clean housing for his chickens.” Prevention [of diseases] is very important. The housing should always be clean,” he said. Furthermore, “People are glad that flies are not a problem on our farm. It is important that the surroundings of the farm are always clean as well.”
Regular cleaning prevented the buildup of ammonia from their excrement, which could lead to respiratory diseases and even death. He used rice hulls as bedding to absorb moisture and droppings, ensuring a healthy environment for his flock. This minimized the risk of respiratory diseases and subsequently reduced the mortality rate of his flock. Following this, it lowers the need for costly treatments, medications, and veterinary interventions, resulting in cost savings. His commitment to cleanliness set his farm apart, and he also avoided common problems like fly infestations.
Hygiene and water quality
To safeguard the health of his chickens, “Make sure that the water is clean. See to it that the water does not have bird droppings because it is the source of gastrointestinal parasites or worms,” Adonis stated.
Worm infestations can negatively impact the overall health and productivity of chickens, including their egg-laying capacity. Infected hens may produce fewer eggs or lower-quality eggs. By ensuring clean water and preventing worm infestations, Adonis maintained the health of his flock, promoting optimal egg production. Increased egg production translates to higher revenue and profit for the poultry business.
Continuous improvement through feedback
Adonis actively sought comments from customers. “Whenever I sell my products, I consistently request customer feedback to identify any potential issues or shortcomings in managing my products,” he said.
By listening to their suggestions and identifying any problem, he refined his farming techniques and enhanced customer satisfaction. This commitment to continuous improvement allowed him to deliver high-quality products consistently.
Adonis’ experience highlights the importance of embracing opportunities, maintaining a positive mindset, conducting thorough market research, and implementing sustainable practices. By following his tips, you can enhance your chances of achieving success in your own entrepreneurial and farming endeavors.