The Department of Agriculture in Caraga (DA-13) has released more than PHP13.9 million in interventions as of August to boost the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP), a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening food security and sustainable farming in cities and towns.
Agency data released Tuesday showed the assistance was extended to partners and cooperators from the private sector, government agencies, public schools, state colleges and universities, and local government units.
The interventions include seeds, fertilizers, garden tools and production facilities such as greenhouses, nurseries, and demonstration sites.
NUPAP was established through Administrative Order No. 03, series of 2022, and is considered a banner program of the DA.
The program seeks to ensure food security for urban and peri-urban communities, cut fuel costs by reducing food miles, create livelihood opportunities and promote healthier lifestyles by making nutritious food more accessible.
Covered commodities include vegetables, fruits, ornamentals, mushrooms, small livestock, aquaculture, hydroponics and vertical gardens.
Four elementary schools and one high school in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur are participating through the “Gulayan sa Paaralan” (vegetable farming in schools) initiative, while 20 villages in Surigao del Norte and three in Agusan del Sur have also joined.
“So far, we have utilized about 95 percent of the PHP18 million budget for the program this year,” DA-13 focal person Romer Amante said in a press conference Monday.
Projects funded include a PHP4.5 million smart greenhouse at Caraga State University, a PHP4.7 million greenhouse at Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology, and a PHP4.7 million mushroom facility at Agusan del Sur State University.
DA-13 is also working with the Butuan City government and homeowners’ associations to expand NUPAP implementation.
Marco Antonio Morido, DA-13 Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulation, urged residents and associations to visit their Municipal Agriculture Offices to apply for participation.
“Upon submission of proposals, LGUs (local government units) will conduct initial evaluations before forwarding them to the Provincial Agriculture Office,” Morido said. (PNA)
