Two important sectors in the Philippines converge at the opening of this agri-farm in Bataan
With our vast and fertile lands of around 30 million hectares, 47 percent of which are used in farming, as well as our tropical climate, an abundance of natural resources, hardworking farmers, and world-class agri-research institutions, the Philippines has a strong agriculture industry that generates ₱1.78 trillion or 10.2 percent share of the country’s gross domestic product (GDA) according to 2020 data from Statista. Knowing this, it is only logical that the government as well as non-governmental organizations support the sector.
On one end, there are national government efforts like the Agricultural Credit and Financing Programs of the Department of Agriculture. On the other, private institutions have ventured into agribusinesses. Such is the case with the boutique hotel, The Oriental Bataan, which recently launched its agri-farm as part of its corporate social responsibility.
The unveiling of the farm was timed in celebration of National Family Day in mid-September. It was highlighted by the seed and tree planting activity of local farmers and their dependents.
To commemorate the occasion, the boutique lodging at the Freeport Area of Bataan in Mariveles town, offers a 10 percent discount on room rates and at its dining outlets Cocoon Restaurant, Lobby Lounge, and Forest Grill. The month-long promo, however, is exclusive for guests who would participate in the seed and tree planting. The special rates are available until Oct. 24.
The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of humans—Masanobu Fukuoka
According to The Oriental chief executive officer Rebecca Lee, the program is part of the hotel chain’s advocacy for food security, organic agriculture, and environmental protection. Similar activities will be replicated in its other properties, including Leyte, Albay, and Legazpi City to emphasize the important role of farming in economic development.
Since July of this year, the Agri-Farm vegetable garden has been yielding produce, such as lettuce, eggplant, pepper, rozelle, malunggay, and an assortment of herbs, used as ingredients in the hotel’s restaurants.
The farm is also being eyed as a center of collaboration between government, private, and farmer’s groups in addressing agricultural concerns in the province and a potential farm tourism site, where guests can participate in periodic agrarian-themed leisure activities.
Event partners were Agri Party-List of Rep. Wilbert Lee, LKY Group of Companies, Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry, and Enviro Scope Synergy Corp. Sponsors were the Municipal Government of Mariveles, Universal Robina Corp., Dakay’s Travel and Tours, Mondelez International, The Power Radio 104.5 FM, Gardenia Philippines, Tang, and Eden.