CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Department of Agriculture in Northern Mindanao (DA-10) extended a PHP2.9 million farm tractor and introduced hydroponics agriculture to farmers in Bukidnon province.
During a ceremony on Thursday, the DA-10 turned over the farm tractor to the Palabucan Farmers Association (PFA) in Libona town, which will benefit its 140 members.
Pooled from the agency’s 2023 funds under the Agricultural Machinery, Equipment, Facilities, and Infrastructure Program, the delivery of machinery is expected to amplify the association’s 200-hectare corn and 50-hectare cassava production, with a 50-hectare potential area.
Meanwhile, DA-10 Director Carlene Collado also led the introduction of hydroponics farming to the 30 beneficiaries under the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Manolo Fortich town on Thursday.
Collado said introducing hydroponics to the recipients fosters a sense of appreciation for agriculture and discipline, enabling the group to learn and engage in food production as a livelihood option even at home.
Ronald Allan Camaddo, DA-10 field agriculturist, said the benefits of establishing urban gardens, mainly employing hydroponics, is a technique of growing plants using a water-based nutrient solution instead of the conventional soil.
Camaddo demonstrated how hydroponics works and immersed the participants in a hands-on activity, which he said augments the “Food Always in the Home” program of the government while capacitating individuals to grow vegetables and other crops in limited spaces. (PNA)
