President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. praised the urban farming program in Taguig City and urged other local government units to follow suit.
“I am impressed with the urban farming initiatives you are doing here in your city,” said Marcos in his speech during a rice distribution event in the city.
The President emphasized that urban farming is proof that Filipinos can cultivate farm produce even in the city and that it is supported by the government.
“This is proof that we can plant even if we are in the city. The administration has full support for programs like this,” he said.
Marcos visited Taguig City to lead the distribution of smuggled rice to beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and underlined the government’s efforts to provide sufficient food supply to every Filipino family.
He highlighted some of Taguig’s urban farming programs located in various parts of the city, such as the Bonifacio Global City Community Farm and the City Farm.
The President also commended the city’s Agricultural Office for its continuous commitment to the broadening of urban gardening in communities.
The Chief Executive vowed to intensify these initiatives alongside local efforts to maintain a sufficient supply of clean water, flood control, and preparedness in times of calamity.
He said these efforts show that the Filipino people are capable of finding ways to overcome current challenges.
Taguig is implementing the urban farming project in line with the city’s program also aimed to promote a green environment and healthier lifestyle for residents.
The administration of Mayor Laarni Cayetano also intends to preserve at least 25 hectares of agricultural land in addition to the 202 hectares it has managed to retain for the cultivation of melon, rice, and high-value crops.
The city’s urban gardening program favors organic farming where pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified organisms, antibiotics, and growth hormones are not used on crops. Organically grown products are better for the environment and for a person’s health.