P3-Million smart greenhouse to boost sustainable farming and local agri-tourism in Badiangan, Iloilo

Aiming to improve local farming practices and enhance the town’s reputation as a leader in agricultural innovation, the Ephrathah Farms in Badiangan, Iloilo, has received a P3-million Smart Greenhouse project from the Department of Agriculture Western Visayas (DA-WV) under the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP). This state-of-the-art facility, fully automated and solar-powered is the first in the province of Iloilo.

The smart greenhouse, equipped with advanced hydroponics technology, will help Ephrathah Farms efficiently grow high-value crops while conserving water and reducing environmental impact. Its solar-powered automation system ensures optimal production throughout the year.

Ephrathah Farms is set to showcase the benefits of these advanced technologies and a new benchmark for sustainable farming. The greenhouse is expected to inspire other local farmers to adopt similar innovations.

During the turnover ceremony, DA-WV High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) Focal Person Jonifer Frades emphasized the potential of the project to advance agriculture in Badiangan.

“The Smart Greenhouse reflects the DA’s commitment to ensuring food security. We chose Badiangan because its farmers are already embracing modern agriculture,” Frades said.

Frades also noted Ephrathah Farms’ strong presence in Iloilo City’s hotels and restaurants, making it an ideal partner for this initiative. “We look forward to see this project replicated locally, strengthening Badiangan’s role in sustainable and resilient agriculture,” he added.

Meanwhile, Badiangan Mayor Suzette Mamon expressed gratitude for the recognizing the town’s potential and emphasized that agriculture is a vital part of their agri-tourism program. She highlighted that the Smart Greenhouse will significantly enhance this aspect.

“While we are developing our tourism aspect, agriculture will play a vital role in our tourism program,” Mayor Mamon said.

The LGU views Ephrathah Farms as a key economic driver and is committed to supporting their initiatives. The Smart Greenhouse is expected to boost employment, income, and contribute to the municipality’s growth.

Ephrathah Farms management expressed appreciation for the project, noting its role in modernizing local farming and advancing agricultural development. The greenhouse will produce high-quality crops like lettuces for top hotels and restaurants in Iloilo City while reducing energy consumption through its solar-powered features.

“Thank you to the DA for considering us as the recipient of this project and to the LGU for supporting its implementation,” said Ed Rhoderick Cañuto, General Manager of Ephrathah Farms.

“The most important aspect of this project is the training component. This is the drive behind Ephrathah as a farm school. We are committed to delivering TESDA-regulated training and aim to provide not only high-quality produce but also high-quality training to our farmers,” Cañuto added.

The turnover ceremony was attended by Badiangan Vice-Mayor Cylas Jun Nobleza, Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Member and Committee on Agriculture Chair Wewin Gaje, Turbo Konstruk, Inc. General Manager Engr. Jose Emie Siojo, and Badiangan Municipal Agriculturist Pacifico Pojol, Jr. # # (Text and Photos by: MSSubang & CFLauresta/DA-RAFIS 6)