SOLANO, Nueva Vizcaya – For Roderick Capalongan, the leap from a career in advertising to the fields of agriculture was more than a change of profession; it was a calling. Once deeply involved in project management, below-the-line communications, and campaign logistics, Roderick discovered his passion for farming through a side venture that quickly grew into his full-time pursuit—mushroom farming.

What started as a way to earn extra income for his family soon evolved into a thriving business. Inspired by a friend with a similar interest in agriculture, Roderick initially grew oyster mushrooms on a modest scale. In 2014, he decided to leave his advertising career behind and focus entirely on farming, setting up “Mushroom Man” on a two-hectare property inherited from his grandfather. Using recycled agricultural waste like rice straw as the growing medium, Roderick found a sustainable way to cultivate mushrooms.

As demand for his products increased, so did his vision to expand. By 2016, Roderick partnered with Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), securing an initial loan of P300,000 that provided the capital needed to grow his operations. "Salamat sa LANDBANK dahil palagi silang handang sumuporta sa akin at sa projects ko. Sa tulong nila, nakapagpatayo ako ng facilities at nakapag-expand ng farm ko,” he said.

Over time, LANDBANK extended a total of P6.25 million in support, enabling Roderick to purchase advanced equipment, expand mushroom housing facilities, and even diversify into tilapia and catfish farming. Today, “Mushroom Man” supplies fresh produce not only to Nueva Vizcaya but also to outlets in Metro Manila and several provinces, including Isabela, Tarlac, Pampanga, Cavite, and Cagayan Valley.

INNOVATION MEETS SUSTAINABILITY

Roderick’s approach to farming is marked by both ingenuity and sustainability. Integrating mushroom production with tilapia farming, he implemented a zero-waste model that maximizes efficiency and reduces costs. His farm recycles spent mushroom substrate—a byproduct of mushroom production—to cultivate duckweeds as a natural alternative to commercial fish feeds. This innovative practice has cut his tilapia production costs by 50%, enhancing his profitability.

“Sa panahon ngayon, tumataas na ang presyo ng farm inputs, tulad ng tilapia feeds. Kaya kailangan maging resourceful para gumanda ang kita,” Roderick explained.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Roderick also launched a line of processed mushroom products, including siomai, crispy mushroom snacks, spreads, chili paste, and organic fertilizers—adding resilience to his business model by diversifying his product offerings.

LEADER IN INTEGRATED FARMING

Roderick’s contributions to sustainable agriculture earned him the “Ulirang Magsasaka – Special Award for Integrated Farming” from LANDBANK at its Models of Excellence Recognition Initiative for Top Bank Clients (MERIT) Awards. He and his wife, Sheila Capalongan, proudly received the citation at the ceremony in Malate, Manila.

His farm has become a benchmark in mushroom and integrated farming in Nueva Vizcaya, drawing visitors from all over—including students, cooperatives, and foreign guests—to learn from his expertise. Government agencies like the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) have also partnered with his farm to promote sustainable practices and advance agricultural education.

Looking to the future, Roderick plans to open a farm school to train aspiring agripreneurs in mushroom cultivation, aiming to position Nueva Vizcaya as a key hub for oyster mushroom production. Additionally, he hopes to travel abroad to further refine his skills and bring back advanced techniques. “We are planning to train sa ibang bansa para mag-uwi ng advanced technology at matuto ng modern practices for mushroom production. Naniniwala ako na kaya natin magkaroon ng globally competitive mushroom industry,” he shared.

ROOTED IN PASSION AND INNOVATION

Roderick’s transition from the fast-paced world of advertising to the rewarding challenges of agriculture underscores his adaptability and dedication. Supported by LANDBANK, he has built a business that exemplifies how passion, resilience, and innovation can drive success in farming.

Through partnerships like this, LANDBANK continues to support Filipino farmers, empowering them to achieve sustainable growth and a better future.

About LANDBANK

As the Philippines’ largest development financial institution, LANDBANK supports agriculture, fisheries, and rural development across the country. Committed to financial inclusion and sustainable progress, the Bank provides accessible financial solutions to empower Filipinos nationwide.