By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside the busy Tanza Municipal Convention Center in Cavite, hundreds of residents and local farmers gathered on November 4, 2025, to explore new ways of growing food in cities. The event, part of the government’s “Lab for All” program, showcased how communities can produce their own vegetables and herbs even in small urban spaces.
The Department of Agriculture’s National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (DA-NUPAP) joined the activity in partnership with the Bureau of Plant Industry – Agricultural Engineering Division (BPI-AED) and the DA Regional Field Office IV-A. Together, they promoted sustainable urban farming as a way to strengthen food security, improve nutrition, and create additional income for households.
During the event, the DA team introduced simple and affordable methods of growing vegetables using limited space, such as vertical gardens, container planting, and hydroponics. Participants were also given practical tips on composting and water-efficient farming—skills that can easily be applied in backyards, rooftops, and community gardens.
Representatives from NUPAP emphasized that the initiative aims to empower families to grow their own food, reduce expenses, and lessen reliance on traditional food supply chains. “Urban agriculture helps people become more self-sufficient, especially during times of crisis or food shortage,” one of the program officers said.
The “Lab for All” project, led by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, is a multisectoral effort that brings together various government agencies to deliver public services directly to communities. Alongside health and livelihood services, the event highlights the importance of food production and environmental sustainability in urban development.
Local residents in Tanza welcomed the activity, saying it gave them new knowledge and inspiration to start home gardens. For many, the idea of producing fresh food right from their backyards offers both savings and a sense of pride.
Urban agriculture has become an increasingly important initiative nationwide as cities continue to expand and farmlands shrink. Programs like DA-NUPAP play a crucial role in promoting sustainable food systems that can thrive even in densely populated areas.
Through continuous partnerships and on-ground education, the Department of Agriculture hopes to turn more communities into green, food-secure spaces—one home garden at a time.
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