With the aim of addressing hunger and ensuring food security in the region by strengthening the capacities of barangays towards sustainable agricultural initiatives, the Regional Launching of the Halina’t Magtanim ng Prutas At Gulay (HAPAG) Program was held on June 21, 2023 at Barangay Calumpang, Molo, Iloilo City.

Among the program’s strategies is the intensification and fostering of agricultural activities such as barangay community gardening, wherein households and communities are encouraged to produce fresh, healthy and affordable fruits and vegetables from their backyards and spaces through the establishment of community garden in barangay with vacant areas.

In his message, Regional Director Juan Jovian E. Ingeniero explained that the essence of HAPAG is to cultivate not only plants but also nurture greener and healthier future for the generations to come.

“HAPAG is a government initiative that enables different community sectors to connect with nature, nurture the earth, and open different economic opportunities. We aim that community gardens will promote sustainable gardening practices, ecological balance, and teach the young generation the importance of local food systems,” said RD Ingeniero.

Being the showcase barangay, it is aimed that Calumpang HAPAG community garden will serve as the best example of where different community gardens throughout the region will be able to replicate.

In a two-hundred square meter land area, the community garden of Barangay Calumpang comprises various kinds of plants and vegetables such as leafy and cruciferous vegetables, fruit-bearing plants, legumes, herbal plants and root crops. The garden is enclosed with short bamboos with hanging colorful containers formed to a flower. Beside of some plants and vegetables are short quotes giving information on how it is known to the locals. This initiative entice visitors to stroll around more in the garden.

Aside from RD Ingeniero, also present during the launching were DILG Iloilo City Director Oscar T. Lim, Jr.; Calumpang Punong Barangay Roberto C. Niño, Jr.; Iloilo City Councilor Miguel S. Treñas; Zarlina B. Cuello, DA OIC Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations; Iñigo D. Garingalao, Iloilo City Agriculturist; Eleazar O. Carmen, Regional Chair- Agri-Fishery Youth Council; and Marivic Pastolero representing the Iloilo Farmers Association.

Local government units are enjoined to lead the promotion of barangay community gardening by including its importance and benefits as well as the products produced through the community garden. Technical and financial assistance to barangays shall also be provided particularly in the implementation of agricultural activities and provision of agricultural support services.