Butuan city: The Department of Agriculture in Caraga (DA-13) has released over PHP13.9 million as part of its efforts to enhance the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP). This flagship initiative is designed to reinforce food security and promote sustainable farming practices in urban and peri-urban areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, the financial assistance was distributed to partners and cooperators, including private sector entities, government agencies, public schools, state colleges and universities, and local government units. The support provided covers a range of interventions such as seeds, fertilizers, garden tools, and production facilities, including greenhouses, nurseries, and demonstration sites.

NUPAP, established under Administrative Order No. 03, series of 2022, is a key program of the Department of Agriculture. It aims to secure food availability for urban populations, reduce fuel costs by minimizing food transportation distances, create job opportunities, and encourage healthier eating habits by increasing access to nutritious food options. The program focuses on a variety of commodities, including vegetables, fruits, ornamentals, mushrooms, small livestock, aquaculture, hydroponics, and vertical gardens.

In Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, four elementary schools and one high school are participating in the "Gulayan sa Paaralan" initiative, focusing on vegetable farming in schools. Additionally, 20 villages in Surigao del Norte and three in Agusan del Sur have joined the program.

"So far, we have utilized about 95 percent of the PHP18 million budget for the program this year," stated Romer Amante, a focal person for DA-13, during a press conference on Monday. The funded projects 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 collaborating with the Butuan City government and homeowners' associations to broaden the implementation of NUPAP. Marco Antonio Morido, DA-13 Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulation, encouraged residents and associations to engage with their Municipal Agriculture Offices to apply for participation. "Upon submission of proposals, LGUs will conduct initial evaluations before forwarding them to the Provincial Agriculture Office," Morido explained.