PP Majella Tumangan-Villaroman
Chair, Urban Farming Program Committee
A milestone event took place on September 7, that signifies the first public-private partnership in Rotary International and the Department of Agriculture on Urban Farming.
In consideration of rising Covid cases, a limited face to face that combines a virtual MoA signing was successfully organized. Launched by RI District 3810, DA Secretary William Dar signs Memorandum of Agreements with Governors of RI District 3810 that aims to promote urban farming for food security and nutrition, and creating livelihood for economic development among communities we serve, starting in RIDIST3810’s Manila area, Pasay area, Cavite area and Mindoro area.
Led by RI District 3810’s District Governor Robert Koa (in person signing), DA Secretary William Dar and the National Urban Farming Director Glenn Panganiban sign MoAs that encompass Rotary Years 2021-2022. The signing was followed by RY 2022-2023 DGE Dr Joyce Ambray (via zoom), followed by RY 2023-2024 led by DGN Leilani dela Cruz (via zoom) and World Class Presidents (WCP) Chairwoman Jeanine Policarpio (in person).
This momentous event is witnessed by ASEC Noel Reyes, DA ASec of Communications, DS Edwin Chiu (in person), SDG Jouie Gabat (via zoom) and Urban Farming Chairwoman Majella Tumangan-Villaroman (in person).
DA has allocated funds for the provision of starter kits, including agricultural inputs and technical assistance for enhancement of barangay community/school garden and trainings on urban agriculture techniques.
RI District 3810 participation led by the Urban Farming Committee implements Pilot Plant Cities:
- Manila Area Plant City: Manila High School and City of Intramuros
- Pasay Area PLANT City: Philippine School for the Deaf
- Cavite Area Plant Cities: Ministries Without Borders in General Trias and Terra Verde Eco Farm in Margondon
- Mindoro Area Plant Cities: Ministries Without Borders in Abra de Ilog and Maculbo Eco Farm in Mamburao.
These pilot sites are monitored by the Urban Farming Committee Vice Chairs Nito Siasat (Manila Area), Myra Bajen (Pasay Area), Myrna Dacanay (Cavite Area) and Melvin Parcia (Mindoro Area).
To enable our Plant Cities to access agri supplies, exchange or sell commodities, the Urban Farming Committee will launch this September a Rotary Agri Digital Marketplace. This is a digital platform by Rotarians for Rotarians.
The new Green of the Crop Rotary Movement bugle call by DG Robert Koa and DA Secretary William Dar brings change for a better future for our nation, while giving respect and dignity especially to the marginalized sectors we serve.
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