In celebration of National Women’s Month, the CBSUA College of Engineering and Food Science successfully conducted a Hydroponics Farming Technology Training in Iriga City on March 3, 2026. This collaborative initiative was organized by the Philippine National Railways (PNR) and the City Government of Iriga through the City Social Welfare and Development–Gender and Development (CSWD-GAD) Unit.
The training aimed to equip women with practical knowledge and skills in hydroponics technology, an innovative method of growing plants without soil using low-cost and locally available materials. Mr. Vince David Urbano, a representative of PNR, emphasized that the initiative supports women’s empowerment by providing opportunities to develop sustainable livelihood projects that can be managed from home. Such initiatives help increase household income while simultaneously promoting food security within the community.
Participants included members of the Iriga City Council of Women (ICCW), led by Federation President Belen Bernales. The ICCW is composed of 28 women’s associations across Iriga City that advocate for women’s welfare and empowerment. According to Bernales, initiatives such as hydroponics training provide women with valuable tools to become more economically independent while contributing to the well-being of their families.
Women employees from the City Government also took part in the training, including Child Development Workers, health workers, and Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Desk Officers. Adding a unique dimension to the celebration, members of KATROPA (Kalalakihang Tapat sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya) were also invited to attend. Their participation highlighted the importance of men’s support for women’s empowerment. By attending the training, KATROPA members were encouraged to strengthen their partnerships with their wives and promote shared responsibilities within the family, particularly in livelihood activities.
The Philippine National Railways further demonstrated its commitment to community development beyond railway operations by providing the materials needed for the training and holistic learning of the participants. PNR also expressed support for future programs that promote sustainable development and community empowerment.
Also present during the activity was Ms. Maridel Berosa, City Social Welfare and Development Officer, who conveyed the Mayor’s support for the initiative. Members of the GAD Office were likewise in attendance, organizing the training and ensuring its successful implementation. In a separate discussion with the CSWD, CBSUA and PNR expressed their intention to establish a formal partnership with the City Government of Iriga to ensure the sustainability and expansion of the hydroponics project.
Faculty experts from CBSUA who served as resource speakers included Engr. Glaza J. Visitacion, Engr. Julius L. de Villa, Engr. Salvacion Christy, and Engr. Rudnay Jay Barbara. Through these strong partnerships and community collaboration, the Hydroponics Technology Training not only celebrated Women’s Month but also sowed the seeds for long-term livelihood opportunities for families in Iriga City. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘔. 𝘔𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘯, 𝘌𝘚𝘋
