PROVINCE OF DINAGAT ISLANDS – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, through its Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP), launched the final leg of the Bayanihan Backyard Gardening initiative across various Child Development Centers (CDCs) in the Province of Dinagat Islands, June 17, 2025.

Spearheaded by SFP Regional Focal Person Ms. Lea Alegarbes, ND III, the initiative aims to promote food security, increase parental involvement, and strengthen inter-agency convergence at the local level. Parents are expected to lead the cultivation and sustainability of the gardens established within the CDCs, ensuring a continuous supply of vegetables to support the children’s daily meals under the SFP.

Following the planting activity, parents also participated in an orientation on Pinggang Pinoy, which aimed to raise awareness on the importance of proper feeding practices and maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet for children. This reinforces the goal of the program to not only provide meals but also to educate families on healthy eating habits.

The initiative also fosters collaboration between DSWD and local government units, particularly the Local Social Welfare and Development Office, Municipal Agriculture Offices and Barangay Councils, who are expected to provide technical support and resources.

Ms. Jo-ann Gonzales, Municipal Agriculture Officer of San Jose, expressed her strong support for the project, aligning it with their office’s vision to promote urban gardening for food sustainability.

“Pasalamatan nako ang DSWD pinaagi sa Supplementary Feeding Program ani nga partnership para sa kalambuan sa mga kabataan. We commit nga we will provide necessary technical assistance and consistent farm or center visits,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ms. Jennifer Taccad, a grandmother of a child enrolled at Brgy. Poblacion CDC, shared her appreciation for the project.

“Makatabang jud siya ug dako especially sa mga preparation sa pagkaon during sa feeding, dali rami maka-popo diri sa garden sa center,” she said.

Moreover, SFP Regional Focal Person Lea Alegarbes extends gratitude to all LSWD Officers and Child Development Workers for their untiring efforts for the welfare of their people especially the children.

The Bayanihan Backyard Gardening initiative of DSWD Field Office Caraga serves as a strategic complement to the Supplementary Feeding Program, ensuring that fresh, nutritious vegetables are within reach—literally growing in the backyards of learning and care.