The number of villages in the Philippines that have embraced the concept of community gardens has seen a significant increase, reaching an impressive count of 25,000, according to a statement from Malacañang on Sunday. This remarkable growth is even more impressive when compared to the humble beginnings of the program back in 2023, when only eight villages participated in the initiative.
The campaign, known as the “Kalinisan Day” program, was officially launched in 2023 under the guidance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. To ensure the sustainability and widespread implementation of the program, President Marcos Jr. issued Memorandum Circular (MC) 41. This circular serves as a directive to all national government agencies, local government units, and other relevant entities to actively support and participate in activities and initiatives aimed at community development.
One of the key recommendations outlined in MC 41 is the establishment of community gardens in villages. These gardens serve as platforms for the cultivation of various vegetables, providing communities with a sustainable source of nutritious food. Moreover, the circular emphasizes that the funding for these projects should come from the respective barangay’s budget, ensuring that the responsibility and ownership of these gardens lie within the community itself.
The significance of community gardens goes beyond mere food production. As Department of the Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Chito Valmocina highlighted during a recent public briefing, “Planting solves a lot of problems concerning cleanliness, poverty, hunger, the environment, and climate change and global warming.” The integration of community gardens into the larger community cleanup drive led by the DILG has been a resounding success. With the DILG’s guidance, 42,000 villages, 1,700 cities, and 82 provinces have actively participated in this initiative, which includes the establishment of community gardens and fisheries.
This impressive level of participation demonstrates the commitment of both the government and the communities to address pressing issues such as poverty, hunger, and environmental concerns. The success of these community gardens has not gone unnoticed, as Valmocina proudly stated, “What we are doing is we’re really showing to the President that we are serious in implementing this and even other agencies are monitoring this.”
The rise of community gardens in the Philippines is a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives and the impact they can have on society. By empowering communities to take charge of their own well-being and environment, these gardens foster a sense of ownership and responsibility. They provide a platform for education, skill-building, and community engagement, promoting a sustainable and inclusive future.
Furthermore, the success of the community garden movement in the Philippines serves as an inspiration to other countries facing similar challenges. The principles and lessons learned from this program can be adapted and applied in different contexts, taking into account local laws, customs, and resources. By contextualizing the achievements of the Philippines’ community garden movement, we can inspire and guide others in their own journeys towards community development and sustainability.
In conclusion, the rise of community gardens in the Philippines is a remarkable achievement that showcases the power of collective action and the positive impact it can have on multiple challenges. From addressing poverty and hunger to promoting environmental sustainability, these gardens serve as catalysts for change. Through the commitment of government agencies, local communities, and individuals, the Philippines has set an example for others to follow. Let us embrace the lessons learned and work towards a future where community gardens flourish worldwide, nurturing both people and the planet.
Source: The Manila Times
