Passi city: The PHP2.85 million solar-powered greenhouse facility in Passi City is set to enhance urban farming by increasing the production of vegetables and other high-value crops, as reported by the Department of Agriculture in Western Visayas.
According to Philippines News Agency, the 1,500-square-meter greenhouse, located on a usufruct lot from the city government of Passi in Barangay Sablagon, is funded by the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP) of the DA. The facility is equipped with advanced hydroponic and drip fertigation systems aimed at optimizing crop yields.
The greenhouse was officially handed over to the Gines Viejo Farmers Association, a group of 39 backyard vegetable growers, who will now manage the facility. Gilda Beter, the association's president, stated that the greenhouse is projected to produce around 100 kilograms of sweet pepper and 50 to 70 kilograms of cherry tomatoes per harvest cycle over a three-month period.
In the initial production cycle, the harvested lettuce brought in a net income of PHP55,000, which was distributed among the association members. Passi City Mayor Stephen Palmares expressed plans to replicate this successful greenhouse technology through additional city-funded projects. "We are very happy seeing this project and the way it is being managed by the Gines Viejo Farmers Association. I hope this initiative will continue and benefit more local government units," he commented in a statement.
NUPAP focal person Ester Ruth Torreverde emphasized the DA's role in assisting the farmers' association to develop a production plan that aligns with market demand, ensuring a consistent supply for institutional buyers. "We need to ensure that before planting, there is already a guaranteed market. If buyers require weekly deliveries, the association should be able to harvest crops weekly," Torreverde explained.
Maria Teresa Solis, DA Regional Technical Director for Operations, who led the turnover, encouraged the farmer-members to maintain and expand the project. She highlighted that such initiatives are intended to support, rather than burden, local producers.
