The Baguio City Council has extended the Urban Farmers’ Exposition at Melvin Jones field to June 2.
The exposition started on May 15 and was scheduled to end May 24. However, the city council has decided to extend it to allow urban farmers more time to showcase and sell their products.
Also known as Agriculture-Based Products Display, this exposition showcases a vibrant display of locally grown produce. Participating barangays and farmers set up unique stalls adorned with native and recycled materials, resembling the iconic bahay kubo or nipa hut.
Community people and visitors can experience the abundance of harvest, which includes fresh fruits and vegetables, honey and by-products, dairy products, eggs, walis tambo; processed products such as strawberry jam, fruit wines, tapey, and peanut butter; and other agricultural products, each telling a story of the barangay and its people.
Launched by the City Veterinary and Agriculture Office in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera, the activity honors the hard work and dedication of farmers and fisherfolk and aligns with the National Farmers and Fisherfolk’s Month which has become a cherished tradition in the city as officially recognized by Ordinance 35, s. 2018.
It highlights the importance of sustainable farming practices, food security, and community engagement.
Through the celebration, the city government hopes to foster awareness, education, and appreciation for local produce. Aside from the exposition, the celebration also launched other activities, such as the Kadiwa ng Pangulo that aims to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers by eliminating middlemen.
Farmers’ Month also features a seed exchange where farmers share seeds of traditional crops, preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Seed exchanges facilitate the conservation of diverse plant varieties. Participants share seeds from their own gardens or farms, contributing to the preservation of heirloom, rare, and indigenous plant species.
Another activity is the Urban Agriculture Technology Exhibition that showcases cutting-edge techniques for growing food in urban spaces.
From hydroponics and aquaponics to vertical gardens, visitors learn how to maximize limited land and resources. – Marcy T. Tabelin and Jordan G. Habbiling
