Samson Ag Supply: Three Decades Of Care

Posted by Matt Hopkins|16 December 2008

Located in the northern area of the country, Samson Agricultural Supply provides farm chemicals, fertilizers, and seeds to more than half a million hectares (Ha) of fruits and vegetables. Growers on this nation of 7,000 islands produce rice as the main crop, but another major crop, mangos, are “known to be the sweetest in the world,” according to owner Samson C. Hiloman.

Hiloman opened Samson Agricultural Supply in 1979, and the business has grown every year. A recently constructed new warehouse is evidence of not only the company’s expansion, but of its commitment to environmental responsibility. “We provide complete personal protection equipment for our employees,” says Hiloman; equipment which is in addition to the cabinet in the warehouse with additional protective equipment, a first aid kit, eye wash station, and emergency shower. Emergency procedures and phone numbers are clearly posted in each area, and Hiloman describes his employees as “well-trained in good housekeeping.”

The company takes its stand on stewardship seriously; after all, it has a lot of customers. Whether it’s rice, corn, or vegetables, Philippine growers average 1 Ha per farm. Farming is often the family business, meaning that the women and children are also involved in the work. This makes safety a priority when it comes to chemical distribution and education.