ORGANIC FARM. The Barong Elementary School in Dingras, Ilocos Norte launches a mini organic farm where they grow high-value crops and vegetables, free-range chicken, organic pigs and fish among others, on Friday (Feb 28, 2020). The same school recently won in the province-wide search for the cleanest and greenest school in Ilocos Norte as they lead the way in organic healthy living. (Photo by Leilanie G. Adriano)
LAOAG CITY – A public elementary school in a flood-prone village of Barong, Dingras, Ilocos Norte is leading the way in terms of healthy organic living.
Inside the vast school compound of the Barong Elementary School is a 400-square meter mini farm which showcases diversified farming technology being run and managed by the school, led by its principal, Kaiser Luis Magno Jr., a farm hobbyist himself from Dingras town.
On Friday, officials of the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte led by Superintendent Joan Corpuz and other public and private stakeholders witnessed the official launching of the mini farm which houses organically-grown lettuce in plastic mulch, spinach herbs, azolla plants contained in recycled containers, a mini-fishpond and an array of vermi beds.
At the back of the school is a livestock farm where learners feed and collect eggs of free-range chicken and geese. The school also tends to an odorless piggery, making use of rice hull mixed with soil.
Teachers at the BES recalled that the farm site used to be a barren land until Magno took over as school principal barely two years ago.
“I have envisioned the school to have a safe environment and be a school of agriculture, entrepreneurship, technology and tourism. I am humbled that our dream of having a mini organic farm has now become into a reality,” said Magno, as he toured visitors around the school farm.
He said the organic farm, which is now sustaining the needs of the school even without utilizing its maintenance and other operating expenses, is a product of collaboration of various stakeholders of the school.
“We are overwhelmed with the support from our PTA (Parents and Teachers Association) and the entire community who help us put up the farm from land preparation to planting of vegetables among others,” said Magno, as he beams with a smile.
Two years ago, he said the community used to be adamant for change but when they saw it done and growing, people have come to embrace it and lend a hand without asking for it.
According to Magno, the program serves a lot of purpose.
First, it is an avenue for pupils to hone their skills in experiential learning, a source of chemical-free and nutrient-rich vegetables which the school uses for its feeding program.
It is also a way, he said, to develop strong bond between the school and community and eventually, to inspire everyone to live an organic lifestyle not only for a healthy living but for a sustainable environment.
While lauding the school’s organic and diversified farming initiative, Corpuz has reminded Magno and its teachers to prioritize the academic performance of the school and to integrate information, communication and technology for the holistic development of learners. (PNA)
