Cherrie Atilano

Rooted in her belief that agriculture can be both sustainable and humane, Cherrie Atilano has spent decades reshaping how the Philippines grows its food and honours its farmers. As president and CEO of AGREA Philippines, she leads a pioneering movement for regenerative agriculture and rural transformation. AGREA’s One Island Economy Model in Marinduque stands as a living example—building circular economies and fostering inclusive development across farming communities.

Atilano now has focused on expanding opportunities for women and smallholder farmers. The Women Food Producers Association, now over 1,000 strong, champions women-led innovation, food production, and community resilience. She has also transitioned her role as chairperson of the AGREA Foundation, ensuring the organisation’s mission continues under new leadership.

Her current efforts include diversifying livelihoods for rice, coconut, and sugarcane farmers, strengthening financial inclusion, and nurturing youth participation in agriculture. Her collaboration with the World Central Kitchen during the Cebu earthquake response further demonstrated her commitment to compassion-driven action.

Recognised globally as a UN Scaling Up Nutrition ambassador and World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, Atilano continues to cultivate a future where farming is a source of pride, empowerment and national resilience.