DSWD 7 Empowers 4Ps Beneficiaries Through Backyard Gardening Initiatives in Cebu
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 7 in Central Visayas is actively encouraging beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to participate in gardening activities under the Gulayan sa Barangay Program. This initiative aims to improve health, nutrition, and food security within local communities across the region.
Showcasing Success in Barangay Agsungot
In a recent demonstration, Janice Wagas, a 4Ps beneficiary from Barangay Agsungot in Cebu City, proudly presented her family's backyard garden to Analy Janaban, the 4Ps Family Development Session (FDS) focal person. This visit highlighted the practical implementation and benefits of the program at the household level, serving as an inspiring example for other participants.
Encouraging Backyard and Communal Gardens
The DSWD 7 program urges beneficiaries to establish both backyard and communal gardens where they can grow a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices. Beyond providing daily food for consumption, these gardens offer additional livelihood opportunities, increase environmental awareness, and foster stronger community bonds through collaborative efforts.
Impressive Participation Rates and Ongoing Challenges
According to DSWD 7 data from November 2025, approximately 205,462 or 95.56 percent of active 4Ps partner-beneficiaries in Central Visayas have already created their own backyard gardens. Meanwhile, 137,686 or 67 percent have engaged in communal gardening initiatives. Despite these high numbers, some households have yet to start due to challenges such as limited space, scarce resources, and insufficient knowledge of planting techniques.
FDS Focus on Education and Resourcefulness
DSWD 7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero emphasized that the Family Development Session (FDS) aims to strengthen beneficiaries' understanding of the value of backyard gardening. This education helps families supply their own fruits and vegetables, save on expenses, and enhance cooperation within the household. For families without land, she suggested using container gardening methods with recycled materials, allowing cultivation in small spaces like balconies and patios.
Promoting Community Cooperation Through Communal Gardens
The DSWD 7 also encourages 4Ps parent groups to establish communal gardens on vacant lots within their communities. This approach not only promotes cooperation and unity but also maximizes available resources for collective benefit. The agency continues to monitor the program's implementation to ensure it contributes to healthier families and more resilient communities in the long term.
