DAVAO CITY — Santiago Lim, the newly appointed administrator of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), expressed his admiration for the home farming project of El Grande Multi-purpose Cooperative during his visit on Friday, May 24.
During his visit, Lim praised the cooperative’s project, which centers on a chemical-free backyard farming method. “As you can see, space is not a problem, and this must be emulated by other cooperatives,” Lim stated.
Lim toured a 1,000 square-meter techno center filled with vegetables and farm animals. He noted that the project aligns with the President’s thrust toward agricultural development. “Actually, this is something that we can spread to and teach others in nearby communities to do their own farming, which has a triple effect: makatipid ka na, makatulong ka sa environment, makakain ka pa,” Lim told Newsline.
The democratized home farming approach adopted by the cooperative ensures that families can have food on the table through urban farming and home gardening, making efficient use of limited space. The project also emphasizes recycling, ensuring that every waste product is reused, thereby promoting sustainability.
Cecille Go, the coop manager, explained that the home garden initiative was encouraged when the pandemic hit. They have proven the program to be effective in ensuring every household has access to food while also protecting the environment. “Every household member is encouraged to help in protecting the environment and fighting global warming,” she stated.
The cooperative collects kitchen waste from its members and, through their technology, converts it into liquid or organic fertilizer. This fertilizer is then sold to the cooperative community, promoting a circular economy and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
The El Grande Technology and Livelihood Resource Center is designed as a greenhouse or hydroponic farm, showcasing meticulously arranged rows of plants grown in containers. These containers are elevated, suggesting a hydroponic or aquaponic system, with a visible water distribution network. The structure features a transparent plastic roof supported by a wooden frame, creating a controlled environment for plant cultivation. The setting is well-organized and dedicated to sustainable agricultural practices and educational purposes.
Go emphasized, “Growing your own food can promote self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on external food sources and providing a more secure food supply for families and communities.”
Programs that encourage community agriculture can foster a sense of community pride, cooperation, and support among residents who come together to grow and share food resources, Lim said.
Go added that locally grown produce is often fresher and more nutrient-rich compared to commercially produced foods that may have traveled long distances. This can contribute to improved health outcomes for individuals and families.
By promoting local food production, agricultural programs can help reduce the carbon footprint associated with the transportation and packaging of food products, leading to a more sustainable and eco-friendly food system.
Growing food locally can also have economic benefits by creating opportunities for small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs to sell their products within the community, boosting local economies.
Community agriculture programs can educate people about the importance of sustainable farming practices, environmental conservation, and healthy eating habits, fostering a more informed and aware population.
Democratized agricultural programs that focus on growing food at the local level have the potential to positively impact individuals, families, and communities by promoting self-reliance, fostering community cohesion, enhancing health and sustainability, generating economic opportunities, and increasing environmental awareness.
