The pandemic left a lasting mark on our collective consciousness, reshaping how we live, work, and relate to nature. In Iloilo, a surprising but delightful trend emerged amidst the chaos: the rise of “plantitas,” “plantitos,” and local farmers.
What started as a therapeutic escape for many Ilonggos soon bloomed into a profound movement—a rediscovery of the ancient wisdom that planting our food is one of the most sustainable ways to uplift provincial life.
This realization is particularly evident in the Municipality of New Lucena, where Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville’s dynamic leadership continues to inspire sustainable living through innovative programs. Her Liderato nga Masaligan sa Serbisyo(LMS) program, in collaboration with SEA Inc. and other Civil Society Organizations, underscores a pivotal message: backyard farming isn’t just about growing food; it’s about cultivating resilience, community, and a sustainable future.
A WAKE-UP CALL
For many Ilonggos, the pandemic was a wake-up call emphasizing self-reliance and environmental stewardship. With food security becoming a global concern, backyard farming emerged as a practical and empowering solution.
Urban homes turned into green sanctuaries, while rural families revitalized traditional farming practices. What began as a trend now serves as a blueprint for resilient living—a culture of growing your food, conserving resources, and fostering community collaboration.
Eco-cultural tourism, a movement that aligns with Iloilo’s identity, adds another layer to this story. In New Lucena and other towns, the blend of ecological preservation and cultural heritage has become a cornerstone for economic recovery.
Tourists are no longer just spectators; they are participants in sustainable lifestyles. From joining farm-to-table activities to engaging in hands-on planting workshops, visitors get to experience the interconnectedness of nature, culture, and community.
With food security becoming a global concern, backyard farming emerged as a practical and empowering solution.
The Eco-Cultural Tourism Connection
New Lucena’s farming initiatives also weave seamlessly into the town’s eco-cultural tourism narrative. Visitors are invited to explore local farms, learn traditional planting methods, and even savor dishes made from homegrown ingredients. This approach not only highlights the municipality’s agricultural prowess but also promotes the cultural heritage of Iloilo.
This not only strengthens local food systems but also fosters a culture of healthy living that complements Iloilo’s eco-tourism identity.
FOR SUSTAINABILITY
The success of New Lucena’s programs serves as a valuable blueprint for other towns and provinces. To amplify these efforts, several prescriptive steps can be considered:
1. Scaling Partnerships: Collaborating with more NGOs, private sector stakeholders, and government agencies can provide additional resources and innovations. For instance, introducing microfinancing for small-scale farmers or tech-driven solutions like soil sensors can further empower local agriculture.
2. Educating the Youth: Schools can incorporate agricultural education into their curricula, ensuring that the younger generation understands the importance of food security and sustainability.
3. Strengthening Eco-Tourism: Towns can develop farm-to-table tourism packages that combine immersive farming experiences with cultural performances, turning eco-tourism into a multi-faceted attraction.
4. Incentivizing Sustainability: Local governments can offer tax breaks, grants, or recognition programs to households and businesses that actively promote backyard farming and eco-tourism.5. Promoting Indigenous Crops: Highlighting the cultural and nutritional value of native plants ensures biodiversity while creating a unique identity for Iloilo’s food tourism.
