From Kubo to Community Dream
The Gulayan sa Pamayanan Program in Barangay Kay Pian, City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, began with a "Kapihan sa Barangay" that started in 2004, led by the Barangay Captain Honorable Zosimo Lorenzo. It began with informal morning meetups at a small hut, which slowly turned into a shared gardening space, sparking a love for growing plants among residents.
The program took a significant step forward when the pandemic began. In response to a city-wide initiative by the local government, the original garden was relocated and officially transformed into the Barangay Kay Pian Eco-Park and Eco-Garden through a formal resolution and an ordinance. This moment marked the transition from a simple gardening spot to a structured and sustainable community project.
Initially, the garden was limited to growing just a few varieties of crops like pechay. However, with the formalization of the program, the community expanded its cultivation to a diverse range of produce, including various leafy greens, solanaceous vegetables, and legumes. This diversified harvest has since become a sustainable program for the barangay, contributing to food security and a healthier lifestyle for its residents.
Bayanihan in Full Bloom
The project's success is deeply rooted in its inclusive, collaborative effort. Its maintenance and development are a joint effort involving street sweepers, youth from the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), members of the 4Ps program, and parents of persons with disabilities. The bountiful harvests are not only for the community's consumption but are also shared with vulnerable groups, including TB patients, and are utilized for feeding programs for senior citizens and day care centers, embodying the true spirit of bayanihan. This remarkable initiative was formally recognized in 2024 when the Barangay Kay Pian Eco-Park and Eco-Garden was awarded 2nd place in a city-wide gardening competition organized by the City of San Jose Del Monte.
A turning point for the community was their partnership with the Agricultural Training Institute - Central Luzon, facilitated by the City Agriculturist. Through this collaboration, they received invaluable training and seminars on modern and sustainable farming practices. Participants, including barangay staff and homeownersโ associations, were equipped with the knowledge and tools to enhance their eco-garden. A significant achievement was the adoption of organic farming, including the production of organic fertilizers, concoctions, and molasses, as well as the implementation of advanced technologies like aeroponics and aquaponics.
Overcoming Challenges Through Organic Farming
One of the biggest challenges faced by the community was the use of pesticides. As Hon. Joe-Joe R. Raรฑada, Committee on Agriculture and Environment, explained,โNakikita naman natin pag gumamit tayo ng pesticides, maganda nga yung resulta ng bunga, pero harmful naman sa katawan ng tao.โ
By embracing organic farming practices and integrating a biogas system, the community overcame this burden. They developed healthier, environmentally friendly methods that ensured their garden remained safe, productive, and sustainable.
Fueling Growth Through National Support
Through the ATI, the garden became a beneficiary of the National Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP), they received a grant of PHP 100,000.00 for beautification and further development. This funding has fueled significant innovation, including the acquisition of complete equipment for aeroponics and hydroponics also the cultivation of mushrooms. The eco-park also features a fishpond where visitors can actively participate in feeding the fish, which are harvested for community occasions.
A Legacy for the Next Generation
The Eco-Garden does not only serve todayโs residents but also inspires the next generation. As Hon. Raรฑada emphasized, โDahil kakaunti na lang ang mga farmers ngayon- dapat ang ating mga kabataan ay ituloy pa rin yung paghahalaman gaya nitong organic gardening urban gardening, ito ay nakakatulong sa pang-araw -araw sa pagkainan.โ
By involving young people and homeownersโ associations, the project ensures that the culture of gardening and sustainability will continue to thrive in the years ahead.
From Garden to Gain
The success of the eco-park extends beyond agriculture. With the help of its residents, the community has established livelihood projects, crafting reusable bags, lampshades, and doormats from repurposed materials. This sustainable initiative, in partnership with the agricultural sector, not only addresses food security but also creates economic opportunities and promotes environmental stewardship. The project serves as a powerful testament to the community's commitment to building a greener, more resilient, and self-sufficient future.
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