NOVALICHES, Caloocan City – Some residents in selected barangays in Caloocan City are added to the pool of urban agriculture movers in the metro as the Department of Agriculture continues to intensify food security in cities, especially amid continuing threat of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

In today’s launching and signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for urban agriculture in Caloocan City, three barangays were given free seeds, and starter kits, as facilitated by the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI). Likewise, the Philippine Seed Industry Association (PSIA), as the new partner for the project, provided a drip irrigation facility for the city’s technology demonstration garden.

During the activity, Agriculture Secretary William Dar emphasized the need for food-secure households during the crisis. He explained that all households must see to it that there is enough nutritious food for the family.

“Every household is encouraged to use the spaces available in Metro Manila to plant nutritious foods,” he said.

Dar also highlighted the growing partnership for the project, not only with the local government of Caloocan City but also with the PSIA.

Meanwhile, Caloocan City Administrator Oliver Hernandez said that the city is one with the national government in promoting farming in the city.

The MOA signing was followed by a ceremonial planting and operation of fine mist irrigation system in the city’s techno-demo garden.

Also present in the activity were PSIA President Mary Ann Sayoc, PSIA Director Olivia Wong, DA Assistant Secretaries William Medrano and Noel Reyes, ATI Deputy Director Rosana Mula, and Director Ronnie Domingo of the Bureau of Animal Industry.

This activity was held June 11, 2020 in Caloocan City Hall.