CEBU — What began as a simple idea—connecting farmers directly to their buyers—has blossomed into a thriving Cebu-based agritech venture. ARKA Inc., founded by Neil Clyde Kho, now reports ₱28 million in annual revenue, proving that technology can transform local agriculture.
A Digital Highway for Fresh Produce
ARKA operates as a comprehensive supply chain platform linking small farms to commercial kitchens. The company describes itself as a "digital highway," collecting data at the source and managing the physical delivery of goods. This system streamlines the journey of produce from remote farms to post-harvest processing facilities.
The startup sources its products from diverse locations, including mountain farms in Balamban and Sudlon. When local supply falls short, ARKA taps partner farms in other regions to ensure consistent delivery. This flexible model allows the company to meet the strict volume and quality demands of hotels and restaurants.
From DOST Grant to Profitable Business
The journey began with a crucial ₱2.9-million research grant from the Department of Science and Technology's Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development. Kho credits this early support as foundational. "Without DOST, we could not be here," he stated, highlighting the role of government funding in nurturing innovation.
The startup showcased its achievements at the 2026 Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week. The grant allowed Kho to refine his business model and address critical agricultural logistics gaps. Today, the company operates with a healthy profit margin, demonstrating the viability of tech-driven agriculture in the Philippines.
Inspired by an Ark of Agriculture
Kho revealed the story behind the company's name, inspired by his son, Noah, and the biblical ark. He sees ARKA not as a ship that sails, but as an "arc of agriculture"—a larger opportunity for everyone. The principle is to create a resilient system where farmers and buyers thrive together, particularly in challenging times.
This philosophy extends to ARKA's partnership with NAMA Urban Farm Inc. ARKA provides technology, training, and market access, helping the urban farm grow microgreens. The collaboration exemplifies ARKA's role as an enabler, fostering a network of producers connected to stable markets.
Empowering Farmers for Food Security
At its core, ARKA is about empowering Filipino farmers. By providing a direct channel to commercial buyers, the company helps smallholders secure better prices and reduce post-harvest waste. Processing raw harvests into ready-to-use packs adds significant value before delivery.
Kho's ultimate mission is clear: uplift the lives of Filipino farmers. He believes that strengthening agricultural capacity is key to food security and economic progress. ARKA's success story offers a promising model for the future of farming in the region.
