On October 11, 2024, a gentle rain poured blessing as the DA BPI-La Granja National Crop Research, Development and Production Support Center (DA BPI-LGNCRDPSC) launched the school garden at St. Vincent Ferrer Community School, Brgy. La Granja, La Carlota City.

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This was led by Ms. Josephine C. Pilar, the passionate Senior Agriculturist of the Center, and enthusiastically joined by Ms. Jaycel M. Blasé, Teacher-in-Charge, together with 36 active teachers, parents and students. They were oriented with the potential of vegetable garden at school in nourishing the individual learners and the community.

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The hands-on experience of planting vegetables cultivated awareness and understanding to the young minds — where food comes from. A vibrant array of sweet potato, spinach, kangkong, spring onion, tomato, eggplant, amaranth and lettuce were planted with the commitment to a healthier school, which resonated the vision of DA Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. that emphasizes increase in agricultural productivity, achieve sustainability and ensure food security in the country.

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As the launching ended, fresh vegetables from the Center were given to the participants as well as vegetable seeds, seedlings and soil ameliorant for their own gardens. The activity was filled with hope as it marked a significant step in fostering collaboration and shared responsibility for a more sustainable future.

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