Bulacan Gov. Daniel R. Fernando commended 120 Bulakenyo youths from 52 organizations for tending the Best Community Vegetable Garden under the 3k: Kabataan, Kalikasan, at AgriKultura Project of the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) and Provincial Youth, Sports and Public Employment Service Office (PYSPESO) held at the Balagtas Hall in Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center last Jan. 24.
The 3K project aims to engage the youth in agriculture and environment especially during this time of pandemic. It was divided into two categories, the Plot/Field Gardening Category and Containerized Gardening Category.
Fernando congratulated the Samahan ng Makabagong Kabataang Progresibo (SAMAKAPO) Plaridel-Banga 2nd which bagged the top award in Plot/Field Gardening Category followed by Damayang Filipino Kabataan - Bocaue on 2nd place, and SAMAKAPO-Malolos on 3rd place. They received certificates of recognition and P20,000, P15,000, and P10,000 cash prizes, respectively.
For the Containerized Category, SAMAKAPO-Bulihan, Plaridel bagged 1st place award and took home P20,000 while LYDO Bustos composed of Sci-LG Com Club and Barkada Kontra Droga of Cambaog National High School was 2nd place and took home P15,000.
Fernando said that as future leaders, the youth will have to know how to cultivate the agriculture industry because it is one of the primary sources of food and livelihood.
He added that a Multiplier and Breeding Center will soon rise in the province to boost its livestock industry.
The youth were given technical training on effective planting and inputs including seeds, organic fertilizers, and garden tools. Participants were evaluated based on proper gardening, production, members' participation, and continuity of the project.
The activity was joined by 120 Bulakenyo Youths from 52 organizations including Sangguniang Kabataan, DF Kabataan, and out-of-school youth.