THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is constructing P4.2 million Organic Fertilizer and Vermicomposting Facilities in Isabela City, Basilan to support local farmers produce high-quality organic inputs and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers.
The construction of the facilities in Lumbang and Baluno villages, Isabela City, is part of the national thrust toward sustainable and organic farming practices.
DA-Zamboanga Peninsula said the facilities are expected to support local farmers in producing high-quality organic inputs, reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers, and promote ecological balance through sustainable waste management practices such as vermicomposting.
"This initiative is part of our commitment to empower farming communities with the tools and infrastructure needed to shift to healthier and more sustainable agricultural systems," DA-Zamboanga Peninsula said in a statement.
On Friday, July 18, officials of DA-Zamboanga Peninsula and Isabela City held a groundbreaking ceremony, signaling the start of the construction of the facilities.
Village leaders and representatives of farmer organizations have arrested the ceremony that marked a significant step forward in advancing organic agriculture in Zamboanga Peninsula.
Two key beneficiaries of the program were officially recognized during the ceremony: Samahang Makakalikasan (Samaka) of Barangay Lumbang, recipient of a Vermicomposting Facility valued at P1.8 million; and Integrated Diversified City Agriculture and Fisheries Farm School (Idcaf) located in Sitio Lantung, Barangay Baluno, which was awarded a Storage Facility for Organic Fertilizer worth P2.4 million.
The administration of Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman continues to support programs aligned with inclusive and environment-friendly development.
"In our dream of having a healthier community, we have also begun focusing on organic farming. We want every Isabele o table to have safe, clean, and nutritious food. That is why we launched special trainings on organic farming, where we have trained and prepared more than 100 farmers to become advocates of organic farming in their barangays," Hataman said.
"Our goal is simple but powerful: a bountiful harvest, a healthy body, and a stronger future for every Isabele o family," Hataman added.
The City Agriculture Office also expressed its full support in ensuring the success and sustainability of the facilities.
The Organic Agriculture Program aims to benefit both farmers and consumers by encouraging the production of safer, chemical-free food while also contributing to environmental conservation. (SunStar Zamboanga)