The Department of Agriculture (DA) recently honored outstanding gardens for their sustainable practices during the 2024 Search for the Best Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture Gardens at Southwoods Mall in Biñan City, Laguna. Among the distinguished winners, Cagape’s Crisp Green stood out as the 2nd-Runner up for the microgarden category, bringing pride to Region XI.
During the regional evaluation, ATI-RTC XI Center Director Ms. Alicia Rose Nebreja praised Cagape’s Crisp Green as a beacon of inspiration for Dabawenyos. She noted how the farm has transformed extra spaces into vibrant gardens that enhance food security and support local communities.
The Agricultural Training Institute XI, which has long partnered with Cagape’s Crisp Green situated at Barangay New Malitbug, Panabo City, Davao del Norte, is proudo of Ms. Eleanor Montalban Cagape who is a teacher and farmer.
Teacher Eleanor has been an advocate of this food security for their community by providing fresh, pesticide-free, and nutritious produce. Now, it has been recognized nationally through Department of Agriculture in partnership of Agricultural Training Institute.
The Journey Begins
Eleanor and her husband started Cagape’s Crisp Green with a straightforward goal: to grow their own healthy vegetables. The pandemic intensified their mission, turning their farm into a source of comfort and a way to ensure a steady supply of nutritious food during uncertain times. Eleanor reflects, “Seeing our garden full of green plants after a long day at work is amazing. It’s a great stress reliever for both of us.”
Crispy Challenges
Gardening comes with its set of challenges. The Cagapes faced issues like fungal infections that led to financial setbacks. Despite these hurdles, their commitment never faltered. Eleanor’s perseverance resulted in a thriving farm that provides fresh, pesticide-free vegetables loved by many in their community.
Planting Impact
Cagape’s Crisp Green has built a loyal customer base, with Eleanor’s co-teachers preferring her fresh produce over other options. The farm’s influence extends beyond their local area; it has inspired students, fellow teachers, and even the Philippine National Police to start their own gardening initiatives. Eleanor notes, “It’s fulfilling to see our methods helping others provide fresh, nutritious food to their communities.”
Growing for the future
Cagape’s Crisp Green’s success illustrates how growing your own food can make a significant difference. Eleanor and her husband’s achievement highlights the advantages of garden-to-table practices, from reducing food dependency to strengthening local food security.
Cagape’s Crisp Green is more than a farm; it’s a testament to what passion and hard work can achieve. Eleanor and her husband’s 2nd Runner-up win in the 2024 Search for the Best Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Gardens celebrates their dedication to healthy, sustainable living. Their journey proves that “Hindi gulay ang ulam, gulay talaga!”—when you grow your own vegetables, you embrace a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.
