Marlon Masong(second from right) with his wife(centre) and children. Photo: facebook.com/marlonemasongsr
Marlon E. Masong, Sr. was born in 1958 in Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur, the fifth of sixteen children in a poor family. His early years were marked by hardship and danger. In the 1970s, his education was interrupted when rebels infested their area, and his father became a target of the NPA. Despite these challenges, Marlon held firmly to the belief that education could liberate people and open the way to a brighter future.
Through perseverance, he worked as a janitor and helper in Cagayan de Oro City while completing his studies. In 1985, he graduated with a Commerce degree, majoring in accounting. Soon after, he entered the world of sales and eventually became involved in mining operations. Mining brought wealth but also conflict, danger, and disillusionment. Marlon survived an assassination attempt in 2014, endured legal battles, and witnessed firsthand the destructive impact of mining on both people and the environment. Though he won cases in court, he lost peace of mind. He came to realize that mining was not the path God intended for him.
Marlon with his organic microbial solution(left) and his Chicken(right) feed with organic feeds. Photo: Pastor Masong
In 2017, Marlon embraced a new calling: organic farming. He began raising native chickens and producing healthy food for families in Cagayan de Oro. Farming proved not only sustainable but life-giving. It restored his spirit, strengthened his family, and aligned with his faith. Even after contracting the severe Delta variant of COVID-19 and facing financial struggles, he remained committed to farming as a way to serve others.
Marlon Masong, teaching Organic Farming techniques to farmers in Brgy. Besigan, Cagayan de Oro City. Photo: Pastor Masong
Marlon’s journey teaches that failure is not the end but part of the road to success. Mining may yield gold, but farming yields life. Organic farming protects creation, provides food security, and nurtures communities. It is sustainable, safe, affordable, and healthy.
Masong is conducting training on Organic Livestock & Gardening. Photo: Bobby Misa Pagusara
His story is a testimony: God transforms broken paths into fruitful ones. Today, Marlon dedicates himself to promoting organic farming, believing it is a way to care for the earth and feed the world. Masong was invited as one of the Resource persons during the training on Organic Livestock & Gardening held last February 3-6, 2026, at Mt. Miracle Garden, Jasaan, Misamis Oriental. This training is sponsored by Columban Fr Oliver McCrossan and friends in Ireland.
Bobby Misa Pagusara.
Related links
- Read more from the current Columban JPIC eBulletin
