Dumaguete: The Negros Oriental provincial government, through the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO), has implemented its Gulay at Palaisdaan Alay sa Kabataan or GPAK program in 85 public schools since its inception over two decades ago.

According to Philippines News Agency, PAO chief Emmanuel Caduyac stated at a Kapihan sa PIA forum that the GPAK program not only benefits schools but also extends to communities, including students and their parents, by encouraging simple and sustainable agricultural practices at home. The program includes a contest among schools to motivate them to sustain their projects on campus, with evaluations based on the physical appearance and production of their gardens and fishponds. Winners receive cash prizes to fund school projects, with awards distributed every September.

Caduyac explained that the GPAK initiative promotes food security, sustainable agriculture, and proper nutrition for its beneficiaries. Initially, the program encouraged students to plant vegetables in school gardens and raise fish for consumption. Conceived by former governor George Arnaiz, the award-winning program aims to teach children about the benefits of gardening while fostering environmental awareness and protection.

The PAO provides beneficiaries with seeds, garden tools, fertilizers, as well as tilapia fries and feeds for fishponds. Schools also receive technical assistance, with a focus on promoting organic vegetable production. The program targets students in Grades 5 and 6, as well as high school students, as its primary beneficiaries.