BAGUIO CITY. DA Secretary William D. Dar led the turn over of the remaining 20 units solar-powered urban aquaponics systems to the fisherfolk in Baguio City and to complete the 50 units as committed.
Said aquaponic technology is one of the commitments of DA Secretary Dr. William D. DAR to the City of Baguio during his visit last june 19, 2020. This is also in support of the Department’s “Ahon Lahat, Pagkaing Sapat (ALPAS) Kontra COVID-19” or the Plant, Plant, Plant Program.
“Every Filipino must be part of the solution to engage in food production initiatives. I would like to advocate the acronym FAITH, FOOD ALWAYS IN THE HOME. There must be faith in every home. Let us have not only enough food but also safe and nutritious food,“ said Secretary Dar in his message.
Dar likewise commended the Bureau in providing opportunities through the project of giving fish and crops that can be grown simultaneously.
Meanwhile, RD Lilibeth L. Signey said, “Urban Aquaculture has aided the BFAR in the Cordillera region to propagate the aquaponics technology to increase food productivity and promote sustainable integrated farming strategy for the urban communities to have locally-grown fish and vegetables as cheap sources of protein and other nutrients.”
The project aims to provide another economic opportunity to farmers and fisherfolk in urban areas and serve as an additional source of fresh, home grown fish and vegetables especially during this pandemic.
“We are very thankful for the unit because as initially planned from the moment we get to know urban aquaponics; we will pay for the unit. We will place the set-up at the top of the barangay hall, this aquaponics will serve as show window for our constituents and teach other women organization to engage in activities like this. We want to succeed so we can acquire additional units of this.”, said Jennifer I. Abrejal, Barangay Official of Session-Governor Pack Road.
Aquaponics System is a sustainable method of raising both fish and vegetables in one culture system. This is an efficient and resilient method of indoor farming that grows nutritious food in urban areas with less water, land and labor than traditional aquaculture/agriculture.
The use of solar panels as renewable energy source will help reduce operational expenses. The project will benefit 50 individuals and stakeholder groups from the City of Baguio and Benguet.
Together with the awarding ceremony were DA ASec Noel O. Reyes, DA RED Cameron P. Odsey, DA-RTD for Operations Danilo P. Daguio, and City Veterinarian Dr. Bridgit P. Piok.**R.FORONDA
