Global Seed Savers, a nonprofit supporting Filipino farmers for over 16 years, announced on April 7 that it will transition all operations to the Philippines, becoming a fully Filipino-led and locally based organization.
The shift reinforces the group’s long-term mission to preserve heirloom seeds, protect agricultural biodiversity, and strengthen community-based food systems.
By operating closer to the communities it serves, Global Seed Savers aims to enhance program continuity and deepen its local impact.
Founder and CEO Sherry Manning will step down, remaining involved as an advisor and donor. Leadership will transfer to Executive Director Hal Atienza, supported by a Philippines-based board of directors.
The organization confirmed that existing collaborations with farmers, indigenous communities, local governments, and donors will continue uninterrupted. While U.S.-based donor support remains, Global Seed Savers is also expanding its Philippine donor network. Its U.S. office is scheduled to close on July 31, 2026, with a small board overseeing final governance matters.
Since its founding in 2010, the nonprofit has cultivated nationwide grassroots networks. Programs include Seed School, which has trained over 5,000 farmers in seed-saving techniques, and community seed libraries that facilitate local storage and exchange.
The group also maintains seed inventories and supports indigenous practices, advancing seed sovereignty and sustainable agriculture across the Philippines.
