Innovative P1-M greenhouse turned over to boost  urban food security in Iloilo City

To enhance food security in urban and peri-urban areas, a P1-million greenhouse equipped with hydroponics technology was turned over to the Iloilo City Farmers Federation on October 18. The facility will be managed by the Camalig Farmers Association, located in Jaro, Iloilo City.

Iloilo City Farmers Federation President Marivic Pastolero underscored the significance of this initiative.

“This project is a big help to the Camalig farmers considering that this can sustain their lettuce production at the same time they can find a bigger market for their lettuces.”

Pastolero further elaborated on the pressing issues the Camalig farmers face, noting that during typhoons and other adverse weather conditions, their lettuces are destroyed, and through this facility, they can get a higher volume that can sustain their current market, and they hope to expand their market at Iloilo City hotels and other restaurants.

Apart from the turnover of the facility, a harvest festival was also held with a total of 150 kgs. lettuce harvested and a total of P27,000 income for the Camalig farmers.

The efforts to enhance urban food security extended beyond Brgy. Camalig, as another P1-million greenhouse, equipped with a drip fertigation system, was turned over to the Jibao-an-Calahunan Farmers Association in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. This facility is dedicated to the cultivation of bell peppers, expanding the range of fresh produce available to the city’s residents.

These initiatives are part of the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP), a component of the High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP). Focusing on sustainability, innovation, and enhanced food security, Iloilo City is forging ahead in its mission to provide residents with a steady supply of high-quality, locally-produced vegetables, regardless of the weather challenges. ###Texts and Photos by Myleen S. Subang/DA-RAFIS 6