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BPI Brings NCR Farmers to PhilGAP Farm in Bulacan

Jun 05, 2026 1,336

Rows of fresh vegetables thriving inside modern greenhouses welcomed dozens of farmers from Metro Manila as they explored how technology and good farming practices can help produce safer and higher-quality food.

On June 4, 2026, the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), through its Agricultural Engineering Division (BPI-AED) and Plant Product Safety Services Division (BPI-PPSSD), organized a field tour at Metro Pacific Fresh Farms (MPFF) in San Rafael, Bulacan. The activity formed part of the second day of the Seminar on the Philippine Good Agricultural Practices (PhilGAP) Program.

The tour gathered 35 participants, including farmers representing cooperatives and associations, as well as local government personnel from the National Capital Region (NCR). The visit aimed to provide participants with firsthand exposure to modern agricultural technologies and best practices being used in a PhilGAP-certified farm.

Upon arrival, the group was welcomed by MPFF Head of Operations Mr. Oren Kliederman, who guided participants through the farm’s facilities. Metro Pacific Fresh Farms is known for producing premium fruits and vegetables marketed under the brand “More Veggies Please.”

During the tour, participants observed several advanced farming systems designed to improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. Among the facilities showcased were rainwater harvesting systems that help conserve water for irrigation, nursery facilities equipped with automatic fertigation technology, mechanical seeders, large-scale greenhouses, and irrigation control systems.

These technologies help farmers optimize resource use while maintaining crop quality and reducing production risks. As climate change and urban expansion continue to challenge food production, innovations such as water-saving irrigation systems and protected cultivation are becoming increasingly important in ensuring a stable food supply.

The tour also included a visit to the farm’s packaging area, where participants learned about strict post-harvest handling procedures and food safety measures. Proper post-harvest management is a key component of PhilGAP certification, helping ensure that fruits and vegetables remain safe, fresh, and market-ready from farm to consumer.

The Philippine Good Agricultural Practices Program promotes food safety, environmental sustainability, worker welfare, and product quality. Farms that comply with PhilGAP standards are recognized for implementing responsible agricultural practices that benefit both producers and consumers.

According to organizers, the field visit was designed to serve as a practical learning experience and an inspiration for participants. By seeing successful PhilGAP implementation firsthand, farmers can better understand how technology adoption and adherence to quality standards can improve farm productivity and profitability.

The initiative also supports the development of urban and peri-urban agriculture, which plays a growing role in strengthening food security in and around highly populated areas. With limited land and increasing demand for fresh produce, modern farming systems offer opportunities to maximize production while maintaining sustainability.

As the country continues to promote safer and more resilient food systems, activities such as this field tour highlight the importance of innovation, education, and compliance with agricultural standards. For many participants, the experience provided valuable insights that they can apply in their own communities and farms.

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