Residents of Angeles City recently benefited from an initiative by the local government, led by Mayor Carmelo ‘Pogi’ Lazatin Jr., which provided a diverse selection of free seeds and seedlings. The offerings included upland kangkong, sitao, okra, pechay, mustasa, as well as seedlings of lettuce, duhat, langka, mabolo, kamansi, guyabano, cacao, kainito, santol, miracle fruit, manga, madre de agua, mulberry tree, oregano, insulin plant, and numerous ornamental plants such as camantigue, v. rose, white bromilla, bromilla, gumamela, imelda, sanchesa, cosmos, avallia white, yellow bell, fortune, papua, evergreen, duranta, lerio, white angel, and tea plant. This effort is part of Mayor Lazatin’s vision to enhance urban gardening and food security for city residents.
Mayor Lazatin actively encourages Angeles City residents to start their own gardens at home. He believes that personal gardens can provide a sustainable source of fresh produce while fostering a sense of responsibility and community. “Gardening is a simple yet effective way to ensure food security and self-sufficiency,” said Mayor Lazatin. “By growing our own food, we can reduce our dependency on external sources and contribute to a greener environment.”
To make it easier for residents to obtain the free ornamental, herbal, fruit-bearing, vegetable, and forestry plants/trees, Mayor Lazatin has facilitated access through the Angeles City Agriculture Office at City Hall, open from Monday to Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This accessibility is designed to encourage more Angeleños to take advantage of these resources and begin their gardening projects.
During the pandemic’s peak, Mayor Lazatin initiated the ‘Luntian sa Barangay Lingap Project,’ a sustainable program aimed at ensuring food security for residents. This project involved distributing seeds such as pechay, mustasa, okra, and ampalaya to over 150,000 households, along with food packs, to support families during difficult times and promote home gardening.
The Luntian sa Barangay Lingap Project has significantly contributed to cultivating a gardening culture in Angeles City. By providing seeds and food packs, the project offered immediate assistance while equipping residents with the tools and knowledge to grow their own food. This initiative has helped many families become more self-sufficient and less dependent on external food sources, enhancing community resilience.
Mayor Lazatin’s ongoing efforts to promote urban gardening and sustainability have been warmly received by residents. Many have embraced the challenge, transforming vacant lots into flourishing gardens. These gardens not only supply fresh produce but also improve the aesthetic appeal of their surroundings, contributing to a greener and more vibrant city.
In conclusion, the Angeles City Government’s initiative to distribute free seeds and seedlings reflects Mayor Carmelo ‘Pogi’ Lazatin Jr.’s commitment to enhancing food security and sustainability. By encouraging residents to start their own gardens, the city fosters a sense of community, responsibility, and self-sufficiency. This initiative, along with the success of the Luntian sa Barangay Lingap Project, underscores the vital role of urban gardening in building a resilient and sustainable future for Angeles City.
Photo by: Angeles City Agriculture Office
