FOLLOWING the successful launch of PLDT & Smart's PlantSmart GrowHub at its headquarters in Makati, a second GrowHub has sprouted in Cagayan de Oro, in partnership with Peace Crops, a non-profit organization that educates communities on urban and social farming, and agro-enterprise.
Peace Crops Executive Director Robert de la Serna shared, “The GrowHub project is the fruit of our partnership with PLDT and Smart. With the high cost of vegetables nowadays, we present a model that can be done in the city and can inspire others to make their own garden. We challenge both the city government and Barangay Carmen to continue this endeavor so we can contribute a lot to Cagayan de Oro City’s progress.”
The GrowHub is an edible garden grown by PLDT and Smart employees in idle office spaces to encourage volunteerism and champion sustainability through urban gardening. During the official launch, employee volunteers enjoyed harvesting the fruits of their labor - cucumbers, kangkong, pechay, and okra, getting just enough for consumption. The rest of the harvest will be donated to the Barangay Carmen feeding program.
“In line with our livelihood program, we hope to replicate this project to inspire constituents to create their own garden,” said Hon. Sunny Rae Cahayag, Kagawad of Barangay Carmen.
Atty. Roy Raagas, Cagayan de Oro City Administrator, said, “Aside from being responsible corporate citizens, you are also involved in the social responsibility of your company. You are doing a great job with this program. Barangay Carmen and the city government will be interested and supportive of this. I think it’s high time for Cagayan de Oro to push households to grow their vegetable garden amidst increasing prices for vegetables and other food commodities.”
This program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) #2: Zero Hunger, #3: Good Health and Well-Being, #11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and #12 Responsible Consumption and Production. (PR)
