GREENRESERVE PROJECT STRENGTHENS PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE MAFAR AND THE AFP
The MAFAR, through its High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP), turned over garden tools and implements to the 1st Marine Brigade (former Camp Abubakar) in Barangay Tugaig, Barira, Maguindanao on May 29, 2020.
The activity aimed at promoting and strengthening the implementation of the #GREENRESEARVE project pushed by the 6th Civil Military Operations (KASANGGA) Batallion, 6ID of the Philippine Army.
The event was graced by Deputy Commander, Naval Forces Atty. Suharto M. Ambolodto and the officials from the MAFAR, headed by Dr Jalika D. Mangacop, Consultant for Agricultural Concerns, who represented Minister Mohammad S. Yacob, with HVCDP Focal Person Ramil Timpolok and Organic Agriculture Focal Person Albaya S. Sagad.
With the theme “Manatili sa Bahay, Magtanim ng Gulay, Hahaba ang Buhay”, the project aims to sustain food security by ensuring enough supply for food consumption of every individual amid the crisis caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The project also showcases the campaign on ‘Vegetable Urban Gardening’ among Filipinos to advocate the program of the National government in attaining food sufficiency for the entire nation.
The program was highlighted by the ceremonial turnover of vegetable seeds and gardening tools to the 1st Marine Brigade. The MAFAR distributed 52 pieces of rake, shovel, bolo and 42 pieces of hand trowel, bags pf organic fertilizers, and 69 sets (6 packets per set) of assorted vegetable seeds.
Brigadier General Jonas R. Lumawag extended his great appreciation to the officials from MAFAR for bringing the assistance to them despite the difficulties in reaching the particular place. Lumawag said he is happy because aside from being soldiers, they are now farmers who help in securing food sufficiency.
Other highlight of the activity was the delivery of lectures on the different management techniques in vegetable production. Dr. Mangacop shared knowledge on postharvest operations, while Focal Person Sagad imparted the recommended techniques in land preparation and production of seedlings, and Focal Person Timpolok shared the pest and disease management of vegetables.
The #GREENRESERVE project was launched on May 19, 2020 at the KASANGGA Camp in PC Hill, Cotabato City, through the joint effort of the Philippine Army and the MAFAR.