The municipality of Guiuan in Eastern Samar inaugurated on Monday a greenhouse project that would help the town improve food security through adopting innovative agricultural practices.
Mayor Annaliza Gonzales-Kwan led the inauguration of the project funded by the Chinese government, together with Zheng Junlyu, a representative from the Chinese Embassy in Manila, as part of the 10th Super Typhoon Yolanda commemoration on November 8.
“One of the sectors that was critically affected by Yolanda was the agriculture sector and one of the most critical concerns is food security. The greenhouse project will provide sustainable solutions to these challenges,” Kwan said during the event.
A greenhouse is a structure that allows people to regulate climatic conditions, such as temperature and humidity.
The PHP2 million greenhouse project established at the town’s Eco-waste and Management Center would enable the cultivation of various vegetables, including cabbage, lettuce, okra, eggplant, and others.
These crops will not only enhance the nutrition of the local population but also contribute to the economic well-being of the community, the mayor said.
She also noted that many local farmers still employ traditional, labor-intensive farming methods.
With the introduction of this modern facility, she expects that the community will gain new knowledge and improve their farming techniques.
Kwan also thanked 4Ps Partylist Rep. Marcelino Libanan for linking the local government to the Chinese Embassy to fund the project.
The facility includes features like a fertigation system, automated drip, and micro sprinkler irrigation system with an area of 42 square meters and a solar greenhouse structure unit with a hydroponic system.
Junlyu, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of such donations, not only in enhancing food security but also in showcasing China’s capacity to provide assistance, particularly technology sharing.
“We hope that our humble contribution will help you to be a place of technological inspiration,” she added. (PNA)
