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), officially handed over four nursery structures in Quezon City on October 17, 2024.
This initiative involved partnerships with four beneficiaries: Joy of Urban Farming in Brgy. Fairview, Brgy. San Vicente, Green Thumb Urban Farming at Brgy. UP Campus, and Esteban Abada Elementary School in Brgy. Veterans Village. The project aims to enhance local farming by providing a sustainable environment for plant production and supporting the community. Additionally, it aligns with DA Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr.’s goal of helping communities secure sustainable food sources and ultimately achieve food security.
Participants were welcomed by Hon. Jun Demayo, Treasurer of Brgy. Fairview, who expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the support from the BPI and NUPAP, led by BPI Director Gerald Glenn F. Panganiban, PhD, and the initiatives of Mayor Josefina “Joy” Belmonte. He also acknowledged the supervision of Ms. Cristina Perez and Mr. Pocholo Bonifacio from Joy of Urban Farming, who are dedicated to promoting urban agriculture in the city.
Engr. Elaiza Nicole S. Dotimas, OIC-Chief of the AED delivered the keynote speech. She emphasized the importance of this initiative in achieving food security, which aligns with the government’s objectives for a sustainable and self-sufficient food system. She also recognized the efforts of the local government unit (LGU) in leading this partnership, showcasing their commitment to the agricultural sector and support for local communities.
The turnover ceremony included the ceremonial ribbon-cutting and the awarding of certificates to the four beneficiaries. Representatives from these groups expressed their gratitude for the unwavering support of the local and national governments in improving farming practices in the city.
Mr. Pocholo Bonifacio, Quezon City agriculturist, also expressed his appreciation for the ongoing support from the BPI and NUPAP. He highlighted that the newly established nursery structures mark the city’s tenth agricultural project facilitated by the bureau. He encouraged community members to participate in the information caravan to learn more about effective farming practices and ensure the sustainability of urban agriculture initiatives.
The second part of the program featured the Information Caravan titled “Agrikultura sa Kalunsuran para sa Masaganang Kinabukasan,” which provided comprehensive insights into NUPAP, nursery management, and integrated pest management.
Each nursery structure measures 6m x 3m and is designed to foster a suitable environment and effective pest management while protecting plants from harsh weather. These structures are essential for producing healthy seedlings ready for planting in urban gardens.
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