By Kenneth Marcos 
For those dreaming of starting a small food business or earning extra income from home, a new opportunity is sprouting in the heart of Manila.
The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) is inviting the public to a free face-to-face training on Basic Mushroom Culture and Cultivation Technology this October 9, 2025, at the Mushroom Training Facility in San Andres, Malate, Manila.
The training will run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and will focus on the step-by-step process of growing edible mushrooms — from preparation to harvesting — using simple, affordable methods.
20 Slots Only — First Come, First Served
Organizers have limited the training to 20 participants to ensure a hands-on and interactive learning experience. Early registration is encouraged, as slots are expected to fill quickly.
Interested participants can sign up through this link: https://forms.gle/zu4Gvgi2ZrJYQE6q9
The training will be held at the Crop Research and Production Support Division (CRPSD) located inside the DA-BPI compound along San Andres Street, a location accessible to residents of Manila and nearby cities.
Farming Mushrooms, Earning from Home
Mushroom cultivation is gaining popularity among Filipinos, especially in urban and peri-urban areas. It requires minimal space, low investment, and can be done even in backyards or small indoor setups.
According to DA-BPI experts, mushrooms like oyster varieties grow well in the Philippines and have high market demand in wet markets, groceries, and restaurants.
With proper training, even beginners can start growing mushrooms at home — either for personal consumption or as a source of income.
Part of a Bigger Goal
This free training is part of the government’s efforts under the “Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas” agenda to provide practical livelihood skills to ordinary Filipinos, especially those affected by job loss, high food prices, and lack of access to agricultural knowledge.
By offering technical training and farming know-how, the DA hopes to empower more Filipinos to grow their own food or explore agribusiness opportunities, no matter how small the space or capital.
Sign Up and Learn
The training includes lectures from experts, live demonstrations, and open forums where participants can ask questions about techniques, materials, and even where to buy mushroom spawns and substrates.
Participants will also learn about sanitation, pest prevention, and proper packaging — all essential for a successful mushroom-growing venture.
This event is ideal for urban gardeners, out-of-school youth, retirees, small farmers, homemakers, or anyone curious about sustainable food production.
Seats are limited, so those interested are urged to register as soon as possible.
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