By Kenneth Marcos 
In a sunlit urban farm in Manila, young leaders and women tend to vegetables and herbs, turning small plots into thriving sources of fresh food. Their work is more than gardening—it represents the future of Philippine agriculture.
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) is recognizing the vital role of women and youth in advancing agriculture through its theme for 2026: “Buhayin, Payabungin, Ingatan: Pagkilala sa Kontribusyon ng Kababaihan at Kabataan sa Paghahalaman para sa Masaganang Kinabukasan.” The initiative highlights their leadership, innovation, and dedication in nurturing and sustaining the country’s food systems.
Among the young leaders celebrated is Carl Vincent D. Gapasin, RAgr, MDM, who started his journey with the Ranchers’ Club of the Philippines. His active involvement in community and agricultural projects helped shape his leadership skills. Today, he serves as Program Head Coordinator of the National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP) under BPI. The program focuses on turning cities and local communities into productive food hubs, ensuring more sustainable and accessible food sources for urban residents.
Gapasin’s career also includes serving as Officer-in-Charge of the Crop Research and Production Support Division (BPI-CRPSD). He has earned recognition for scientific excellence, winning the Best Scientific Poster award three times from the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST). He is also a founding member of the Philippine AgriSolar Consortium, part of the Agroecology Coalition, and a fellow of the ASEAN Climate Leadership Programme.
BPI emphasized that the contributions of women and youth are critical not only in production but also in research, innovation, and community outreach. Their involvement strengthens local food systems, promotes sustainability, and encourages climate-resilient practices across the agricultural sector.
As urbanization increases, programs like NUPAP help ensure that agriculture remains part of city life. By empowering young leaders and women, BPI aims to sustain productivity, improve livelihoods, and inspire the next generation of Filipino farmers and agri-innovators.
Recognizing these contributions is more than an award—it is a call to action for communities to support women and youth in agriculture. By providing opportunities, training, and resources, the country can nurture a stronger, more resilient, and innovative food system for the future.
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