Caraga: The Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region (DA-13), in partnership with local government units, is planning to establish community vegetable nurseries across the area to develop localized food systems at the municipal level. This initiative is part of the department's Gulayan sa Bayan (GSB) project.

According to Philippines News Agency, Romer Amante, the focal person for the Fruits and Vegetable Program of DA-13, stated that the nurseries will be set up as part of a nationwide launch of the GSB project. The launch is scheduled to take place over two days, from August 18 to 19. In Caraga, the project kicked off on Monday, spearheaded by Regional Executive Director Arlan Mangelen and attended by representatives from local government units, Rural Improvement Clubs (RICs), 4H Clubs, and leaders of farmers' organizations.

Amante emphasized that the initiative aims to establish one community nursery for vegetables in 67 municipalities within the region, excluding cities. This effort is part of ongoing measures to ensure food security in Caraga. Each site will receive a budget allocation of PHP100,000 from the DA, which will also supply agricultural inputs, materials, and farm tools.

The project prioritizes cooperation with the RICs and 4H Clubs. In areas where these organizations are absent, existing farmers' organizations will be engaged to undertake the project.