The Agriculture Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA successfully conducted two batches of seminars on Urban Agriculture (UA) in the provinces of Palawan and Marinduque, which equipped a total of 56 participants, including extension workers, farmers, women, and agri-enthusiasts, with the essential knowledge and skills needed to cultivate their own food in urban settings.
In partnership with Rodriguez Integrated Farm, the second batch took place on April 8, 2024 at the Butterfly Garden and Cultural Heritage Farm in Brgy. Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, with 26 participants. On the other hand, the third batch, participated by 30 participants was successfully conducted on May 22, 2024 at Brgy. Mansiwat, Boac, Marinduque.
During the activities, resource person Roseanne D. Nilo, Media Production Specialist II/NUPAP Point Person of ATI-MIMAROPA demonstrated the water conservation and soil quality maintenance techniques crucial for the success of urban farming.
Ms. Nilo also elaborated on various aspects of UA, including suitable vegetable varieties and their diverse cultural management practices, customizing discussions to meet the needs of the participants in their respective communities.
Moreover, through hands-on activities covering soil mixtures, container gardening, and basic hydroponic systems, the participants gained practical insights into sustainable farming practices.
Brgy. Chairman Eloisa Majaba and Agricultural Technician Jennifer Nabos graced the activity, extending a warm welcome to the participants and encouraging them to apply the knowledge gained from the seminar.
To start their UA endeavors within their respective communities, the participants were provided with starter kits such as vegetable seeds and seedlings of herbs and lettuce from the ATI-MIMAROPA and its partner Learning Site for Agriculture.
The said activity supports the implementation of the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP) to ensure continuous food production in both rural and urban communities, guaranteeing food security, accessibility, and stabilizing food prices.
