DA-WV turns over P3-Million worth of greenhouse projects to farmers in Leon, Iloilo

The Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas (DA-WV), through its High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), turned over three Greenhouse with Drip Fertigation System Projects in Leon, Iloilo on August 22. Each greenhouse, valued at P1-million was awarded to the Bucari Farmers Association, Buga Farmers Association, and MATABANACO Farmers Association.

The turnover of these greenhouses represents a significant step in modernizing agricultural practices in Leon’s upland areas. With advanced fertigation system built into the greenhouses, farmers can deliver accurate amounts of water and nutrients directly to the plants leading to healthier crops and more abundant harvests.

During the ceremony, Leon Sangguniang Bayan Member and Committee Chair in Agriculture Hilario Taño expressed his gratitude to the DA for the project, assuring that the greenhouses will be fully utilized to benefit both the farmers and the vegetable industry in the municipality. 

He emphasized the need for continued DA support and encouraged farmers to go beyond existing programs to improve production and the agricultural industry. 

“Our focus should not only be on production but also on creating sustainable agricultural enterprises here in Leon,” Taño highlighted the local government’s commitment to developing value-added industries., 

Meanwhile, Leon Municipal Agriculturist Ryan Caldito urged the exploration of the municipality’s agri-tourism potential by developing an agri-tourism circuit. He stressed the importance of focusing on high-value crops production as a vital strategy for local agricultural growth. Caldito also guaranteed that the local government will take care of all DA-granted projects, ensuring they are fully utilized and maintained for the benefit of the farming community.

MATABANACO Farmer Association President Tito Cagape expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the DA-WV and the LGU for securing the Greenhouse Projects for Leon’s farmers. He shared that using advanced greenhouse technology will make a difference in their daily work to help their farming activities more efficient at the same time boost their productivity.

DA-WV High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) Focal Person Jonifer Frades highlighted that these projects are more than just providing infrastructures but also giving farmers the right tools and support they need to thrive and stay resilient in today’s agricultural environment.

The three recipient farmers’ associations are expected to make full use of these greenhouses to increase vegetable production in the region. These greenhouse projects are anticipated to create a positive impact across the farming communities in Leon, encouraging more farmers to adopt innovative and sustainable practices that can lead to a more profitable result. # (Text and Photos by: MSSubang & CFLauresta/DA-RAFIS 6)