The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), through the Agricultural Engineering Division (BPI-AED) and the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP), in partnership with Barangay Casile, Cabuyao City, Laguna, reached a significant milestone in their pursuit of sustainable agriculture and food security. This achievement was marked by the formal turnover of greenhouse and hydroponics systems, and the launching of the community garden in Barangay Casile, Cabuyao City, Laguna on October 8, 2024.
On behalf of BPI Director Gerald Glenn F. Panganiban, Ph.D., the activity was spearheaded by BPI Assistant Director For Research, Development, and Production Support Services, Dr. Herminigilda A. Gabertan. In her inspirational message, Dr. Gabertan underscored the importance of innovation in agriculture and encouraged the community to take pride in these new structures and work together to make them thrive. She expressed her hope that Barangay Casile can become one of the leading suppliers of fresh plant food in the urban and peri-urban.
The event was also attended by AED OIC Elaiza Nicole S. Dotimas, Mr. Felix Joselito H. Noceda, OIC-Chief for Field Operations Division and Regional NUPAP Focal Person of DA RFO IV-A; Barangay Chairman Orlando P. De Sagun; Ms. Michiko R. Escalanter, City Local Government Operations Officer of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Cabuyao City; Mr. Edgardo L. Casalme, Chairman of Casile Guinting Upland Marketing Cooperative; Rev. Dr. James Sy and Rev. Morrel Estrellado, representatives from the UCF Multipurpose Cooperative, Barangay Casile officials, the agriculture sector, community leaders, and other stakeholders who played an instrumental role in the project’s success. Their presence underscored the collective commitment to advancing urban farming in the city.
Chairman De Sagun extended his heartfelt gratitude to DA-BPI and NUPAP for their support in response to the community’s request. “Napakalaking tulong nito sa atin, unang-una sa personal nating pangangailangan, sa likod bahay na lang kayo pipitas ng mga gulay na ipakakain sa ating pamilya at makakasigurado tayo na ligtas yung ating mga gulay.”
Turnover of Urban Agriculture Structures
The first greenhouse is in Mt. Tabor Brgy. Casile, Cabuyao, Laguna, is a 15-meter by 13.6-meter structure, built to withstand environmental stress and provide long-lasting agricultural use. It features a 200-micron polyethylene UV film, a 24-mesh fine net, and a 40% silver shade net for optimal light and shade. A gravity-fed drip irrigation system, powered by a 1,000-liter overhead water tank, ensures precise water delivery to plants’ roots, minimizing water waste and maximizing efficiency. The greenhouse also serves as a barrier to pests and maintains a healthier growing environment.
Meanwhile, the second greenhouse is in Purok 6 Brgy. Casile, Cabuyao, Laguna include a hydroponic system and has the same size area. It features more advanced protective systems, including a 200-micron PE UV film for optimal light exposure and a 24-mesh fine net for airflow and pest control. A 40% silver shade net regulates sunlight, allowing operators to adjust light exposure for different crops or weather conditions. The greenhouse with hydroponics also has a gravity-fed drip irrigation system, programmable timers for precise water delivery, and a temperature sensor for humidity and temperature management. The misting system is powered by a 1,000-liter PVC tank. The greenhouse with hydroponics is designed for leafy greens, with a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponic system for efficient nutrient delivery. A 1,000-liter concrete mixing tank serves as the nutrient solution reservoir, ensuring plants receive the nutrients they need for growth
Launching of the Community Garden
Another major highlight of the event was the launching of the community garden, which was established to encourage local residents to grow their own food and promote food security.
The successful turnover of the UA structures is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration. By working together, the local government, DA-BPI, NUPAP, and the community have driven positive change and contributed significantly to the country’s agricultural development.
#BagongPilipinas
#ParaSaMasaganangAgrikultura
(100924-14)