By Kenneth Marcos 
In the heart of the city, where space is tight and food prices continue to rise, a new kind of farming is quietly taking root — on rooftops, in backyards, and even in small pots by the window. This growing movement takes center stage at Pagsibol 2025: Philippine Horticulture and Urban Agriculture Summit, happening from September 30 to October 2 at the Manila Prince Hotel.
With just 12 days to go, farmers, gardeners, advocates, LGUs, and agripreneurs are gearing up for the summit, which aims to push forward sustainable, inclusive, and climate-smart food production in cities and communities.
Growing Food, Growing Futures
Urban farming has become more than just a hobby. For many families, especially in low-income areas, it’s now a way to save money, access fresh vegetables, and improve nutrition. During the pandemic, countless Filipinos turned to gardening as a survival strategy — and for many, it became a permanent part of daily life.
Pagsibol 2025 aims to build on that momentum. It will bring together experts, local producers, and government partners to share new ideas, technologies, and solutions that make food production possible even in small or unconventional spaces.
The summit will cover topics like:
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Container and vertical gardening techniques
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Organic and sustainable farming practices
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Urban composting and soil health
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Microgreen and seedling production
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Business opportunities in urban agriculture
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Policy and support programs from the government
Inclusive and Climate-Resilient Farming
The event also focuses on how horticulture and urban farming can help communities adapt to climate change. By promoting localized food systems, families can rely less on far-away markets and reduce the carbon footprint of transporting goods.
“Urban agriculture is not just for homes with gardens. It’s for schools, barangays, and even businesses. It’s about making food accessible, affordable, and local,” said one of the organizers.
Government agencies, local government units, non-profit organizations, and private sector groups will all participate in the summit, reflecting a strong multi-sectoral push to make urban farming more widespread and impactful.
Everyone Is Invited
Pagsibol 2025 is open to farmers, students, homemakers, professionals, and anyone interested in growing their own food. Whether you’re an expert or just starting out, the event offers practical lessons and connections that can help you begin or expand your own green space — even if you only have a few square meters to spare.
Admission to the summit is free. Pre-registration is encouraged, and walk-in participants will also be accommodated depending on venue capacity.
A Greener, Healthier Tomorrow Starts Today
As the country faces rising food insecurity and the effects of climate change, events like Pagsibol 2025 show that solutions are not always far away — sometimes, they can be planted right outside your door.
Mark your calendars and be part of the growing movement. Because when we grow food in our cities, we grow stronger as a nation.
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