LA TRINIDAD, Benguet (PIA) — A farmer in La Trinidad, Benguet, has invented his own hydroponic solution that enabled him to develop a Kitchen Hydroponics System for higher-quality harvests of vegetables and herbs.
Fredie Ayawan, a farmer-innovator and owner of FMS Agritech Integrated Farm, developed the system that supports the advanced cultivation of plants such as vegetables, crops, and herbs, using a water-based nutrient solution instead of soil.
Ayawan’s product is an organic fertilizer called Hydropomin, the first original hydroponic solution mixture developed in town.
“Nag-focus ako sa pag-blend ng hydroponic nutrients, at dito ko rin na-try at natutunan kung paano palakihin ang ating mga halaman through hydroponics,” Ayawan shared.
Hydroponics is an effective, convenient, and reliable alternative to traditional soil-based agriculture, as it also provides nutrients necessary for plant growth and development.
“Bale itong hydropomin ay simple lang gamitin. Ihalo lang sa tubig ‘tsaka ilagay ‘yung halaman sa box na may halong hydropomin at tubig, pwede na silang lumaki. Hindi na didiligan, hintayin na lang mag-harvest. Ganoon lang kasimple,” Ayawan explained.
Aside from farmers, the product also targets urban gardeners, especially nowadays that agricultural lands continue to dwindle due to urbanization.
Ayawan aims to support farmers in adopting modern agricultural practices and to promote sustainable urban farming while maximizing small spaces such as terraces, rooftops, and indoor areas for cultivation.
“Kung titignan po natin dito sa komunidad po natin, almost po iyong space natin is nagiging commercialized na po. Ibig sabihin, iyong mga agricultural land natin is nagiging commercial building na. So, saan na tayo magpa-farm? Maybe 20 years from now, wala na tayong space,” Ayawan shared his inspiration behind developing his product back in 2020.
For the product registration and licensing, Ayawan sought the assistance of the Benguet State University Agri-based Technology Business Incubator/Innovation Center (BSU ATBI/IC). The Fertilizer and Pesticides Authority, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Department of Science and Technology provided support in certifying and registering Hydropomin as an agricultural product.
Ayawan’s Hydropomin contributes to meaningful changes and transformative advancements in the agricultural sector. His product not only promotes agricultural development but also motivates others to pursue sustainability, innovation, and adaptability in modern agricultural farming. **JDP/DEG/Carolyn Ventura-PIACAR-DMMMSU Intern
