The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture’s (CBSUA) Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Extension Students (BSA 4E2) joined forces with the university’s Extension Services Division (ESD) to organize “Growing Green Leaders: Training on Urban Gardening and Edible Landscaping” on December 8, 2025.
Held at Barangay Pawili’s Multipurpose Hall, the educational training aimed to equip the youth with skills for sustainable food production in urban spaces. Managed under the YOUNGSTERS project, which stands for Youth Empowerment through Initiatives in Agricultural Practices, Strategies, and Innovations, the workshop was overseen by ESD Director Ms. Abigail V. Guinoo. In her welcome address, she emphasized the value of equipping young people and community members with modern, eco-friendly farming techniques, noting the attendees’ keen interest in learning new approaches.
Leading the training sessions was Mr. Diosdado L. Culat Jr., owner of Dhadz Integrated Farm in Pinit Ocampo, Pili – a recognized Learning Site for Agriculture. His discussions delved into why urban gardening matters today, outlining its benefits for both families and communities while motivating Pawili’s youth to start their own projects.
The initiative was made possible through partnership with the Local Government Unit of Pili. Supporting the event were Mr. Basil Dr. Layosa (AT/LYDO Designate), Mr. Rodel M. Garbeles (MUPAP & OAC Focal Person), and Mr. Geronimo R. Ayo, Acting Municipal Agriculturist of Pili, all of whom shared messages of encouragement for the participants. Ma. Fenelyn Bufete, Barangay Pawili’s SK Chairman, kicked off the program with opening remarks, and Edcel Isidro, SK Chairman for the Committee on Agriculture, closed the event by reinforcing the importance of collective action. A standout moment came with the distribution of gardening materials, provided by the Department of Agriculture, Regional Field Office 5 (RFO 5).
By bringing together academic partners, local leaders, and community members, the training created a dynamic environment for sharing expertise, working together, and building a stronger community. The effort not only raised awareness about sustainable urban agriculture but also inspired young residents to play a vital role in shaping a greener, more thriving Pawili. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘔𝘴. 𝘉𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘦 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵, 𝘌𝘚𝘋 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘧𝘧
