The local government of Parañaque is promoting urban gardening in the city in line with the call of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to implement the “Green Revolution” program.

Mrs. Aileen Olivarez, wife of Mayor Eric Olivarez and head of the city’s Clean and Green Office, said urban farming in every barangay is very important as it provides affordable and accessible healthy food to the residents.

“Urban gardening encourages the community to know where food comes from, how it's grown, and connect with the people who grow it,” said Olivarez who initiated the planting of trees along the center islands of major roads in the city.

The DILG urged barangay officials in the country to include planting of vegetables in their respective programs to instil in their constituents the value of urban farming.

The DILG said the spacious barangay halls should provide a garden where vegetables can be planted.

Mrs. Olivarez also said urban farming provides a solution to the threats to food security in cities.

According to Olivarez, growing food in the city, especially if done by a community, can also help reduce the harmful effects of climate change as people play their part in promoting sustainable agriculture in their areas.

She said that urban farming and gardening provide ways to use the city’s land for both farming and social interactions around ecological principles, food, and pleasure.

Mrs. Olivarez added that it activates public spaces, adds greenery to the urban landscape, raise public awareness on the importance of urban greenery, and contributes to biodiversity.