The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is continuously promoting hydroponics technology to boost the production of herbal plants and other vegetable crops in Bulacan province.

DOST Regional Director Julius Cesar Sicat said on Wednesday the agency has recently provided a vertical hydroponics system with greenhouse to seven identified beneficiaries in the province.

Sicat said the beneficiaries were the Sta. Cruz Farmers Association in Angat, Bulacan Natural Farmers Association (BANAFAR) in Pulilan town, Balaong Vegetable Farmers Association in San Miguel, Knights of St. Francis Farmers Association in the City of San Jose de Monte, local government unit of San Pablo in Malolos City, local government unit of Tibig in Bulakan town and the local government unit of San Lorenzo in Norzagaray.

“The DOST aims to introduce smart agricultural technologies that will aid in improving the communities’ access to herbal plants and other vegetable crops,“ he said in a statement.

Sicat said the vertical tower hydroponics system is a water-efficient and space-saving technology that offers a spectrum of possibilities for the beneficiaries.

“It could work wonders towards food security because of the soilless and water recirculating principle that makes the vertical garden good news for both the table and the planet,” he said.

Likewise, he said that hydroponics technology will eliminate the presence of microorganisms and heavy metals, which are crucial factors in the production of herbal medicines and other crops.

To ensure the sustainability of the project, the DOST has organized technology training on the operation and maintenance of the vertical hydroponics system.

The project was funded under the DOST-III Expanded Implementation of Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program, which receives continuous support from Sen. Joel Villanueva. (PNA)