PEÑABLANCA, CAGAYAN — In a major boost to localized food security and climate-resilient farming, the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office No. 2 (DA RFO 2) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Peñablanca officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art ₱3.7 million greenhouse and agricultural facility. The launching, held today, June 1, 2026, was spearheaded by DA RFO 2 Regional Executive Director Dr. Rose Mary G. Aquino and local municipal officials. Funded under the DA’s National Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program (NUPAP), the initiative is designed to directly modernise farming infrastructure, insulate small-scale farmers from unpredictable weather patterns, and elevate rural livelihoods across the municipality. The comprehensive agricultural complex represents a combined investment aimed at creating a highly efficient, year-round production ecosystem. The Department of Agriculture initially allocated ₱2,760,750.00 for the core construction of the site’s primary facilities, which include: • A protective greenhouse for high-value crop cultivation • A specialized mushroom house • A dedicated crop nursery • A poultry house to support diversified livestock production To ensure local farmers were equipped to utilize the structures immediately, the infrastructure was complemented by ₱344,229.50 worth of high-quality agricultural inputs and modern machinery. Recognizing the need for long-term sustainability, the DA injected an additional ₱67,048.75 in operational interventions over the last year to maintain high productivity levels and seamlessly transition the facility into full operation. During the ceremony, Dr. Aquino emphasized that integrating modern technology with community-led farming is vital to combating inflation and supply chain vulnerabilities. “We can attain food security with this project, aided by our collective effort. Facilities such as greenhouses help protect production from harsh weather and extend growing capability, promoting more efficient and continuous production systems,” Dr. Aquino stated, reinforcing the government’s commitment to subverting climate risks. The newly inaugurated facility aligns with the core mandate of the NUPAP, an official banner program of the Department of Agriculture. NUPAP seeks to transform vacant suburban spaces and peripheral agricultural lands into highly productive green zones. By establishing these specialized hubs, the DA aims to bridge the gap between food production and consumption, ensuring that communities neighboring major urban centers in Cagayan remain self-sufficient and economic-forward. The Peñablanca LGU expressed its gratitude for the intervention, promising tight cooperation with local cooperative beneficiaries to maximize the facility’s yield and secure a steady supply of fresh, affordable produce for the region.

via Dr. Ferdinand Cortez