Barangay Suyo officials in Laoag City unveil their new agro-tourism flower farm with sunflowers, mulberries, and pick-and-pay fruits and vegetables on Tuesday. Photo courtesy of Edmar Tagama.
A rice-farming community in Laoag is converting idle lots into a flower farm to boost agro-tourism, attract visitors, and create additional income, local officials said on Tuesday.
Barangay 30 Suyo opened the community garden near the village hall, with development led by village officials and volunteers.
Edmar Tagama, village councilor and president of the 4-H Club youth group, expressed excitement about the project.
“We are glad to see people enjoying the beauty of our work. We hope it inspires support for sustainable farming and provides livelihood opportunities,” Tagama said.
Officials said the garden was influenced by the HAPAG KAY PBBM initiative, which promotes urban and peri-urban agriculture to improve food accessibility, affordability, and security through community engagement.
City agriculturist Sheila Opelac said the city is developing several farm tourism sites in partnership with local farmers’ associations to encourage longer visits and generate income for residents.
Opelac added that farming combines artistry and business, and thanked community stakeholders for helping promote sustainable farming and attract visitors.
Visitors can participate in a “pick and pay” program for seasonal fruits such as mulberry and papaya, along with assorted lowland vegetables. A donation box at the main entrance helps maintain the communal garden, located about 10 minutes from downtown Laoag.