CARMEN, DAVAO DEL NORTE—To equip stakeholders and implementers of the Gulayan sa Paaralan Program with essential knowledge and skills in urban gardening, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI (ATI-RTC XI), through the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP), conducted a Technical Briefing on Urban and Peri-Urban Gardening at ALIA National High School (ALIA NHS), Barangay Mangalcal, Carmen, Davao del Norte, on March 14, 2025.
The initiative aims to foster sustainable food production within limited spaces, ensuring that communities can maximize available resources for food security.
ALIA NHS School Principal Ms. Joy Luayon warmly welcomed the participants, which included Senior High School students, Alternative Learning System (ALS) learners, parents, and members of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA).
During the briefing, NUPAP Focal Person Pauline Joy J. Reyes discussed key urban agriculture practices, such as containerized gardening, hydroponics, and edible landscaping. She emphasized the significant role of sustainable food production, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Adding depth to the discussion, Mr. Bendaim Lerz F. Cachuela creatively presented topics on common vegetable crops grown in the community and insect pest management, providing practical insights for urban gardeners.
Meanwhile, ATI Technical Staff Ms. Babyglace Lanit introduced ATI’s various services and programs, highlighting the e-learning platform (elearn.e-extension.gov.ph) that offers free agricultural courses. Following her discussion, several participants successfully enrolled in online courses, enhancing their knowledge in modern farming techniques.
By the end of the activity, students expressed their appreciation for the learning opportunity.
"We are happy that ATI visited our school, shared their programs, and helped us appreciate farming and growing our own food," one student shared.
The Technical Briefing on Urban and Peri-Urban Gardening reflects ATI-RTC XI’s commitment to empowering communities through agricultural education, reinforcing the importance of urban gardening as a sustainable solution to food security and self-sufficiency.
