Bacolod city: This city has partnered with 13 associations to utilize idle lands and vacant spaces for urban farming, aiming to boost livelihood and ensure food sustainability for Bacolodnons.

According to Philippines News Agency, the city government reported that five beneficiary-associations received grants on Monday to initiate their urban farming projects under the PHP9-million Sustainable Program for Resilient and Optimum Urban Transformation (SPROUT). The Federation of Homeowners Association Inc. was awarded PHP3 million; Bacolod City Integrated Small Farmers Federation Inc., PHP1.5 million; Bacolod City Fisherfolks Federation Inc. received PHP1 million; while Senior Citizen Association of Purok San Dionisio Inc. and Gardenville Homeowners Association Inc. each received PHP100,000.

Mayor Greg Gasataya stated, "We entrust the fund to you with the hope that this can help your members." He emphasized the importance of proper fund use, accountability, and compliance with program objectives for the benefit of Bacolod's residents.

Each association entered into a memorandum of agreement with the city government to implement their projects. Through the SPROUT Program, the city aims to enhance food self-sufficiency, climate resilience, and waste management through bio-waste recycling, while increasing livelihood opportunities for various community sectors.

Funded by the city's 20 percent Development Fund, this initiative is a collaborative effort among the city government, IF Green Technologies, and various stakeholders, including community associations, sectoral groups, farmers, and fisherfolk in Bacolod's 61 villages. It aims to promote urban greening, facilitate market access, and improve waste management.