Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Drives Urban Farming Initiative to Boost Food Security

Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso is spearheading an initiative to introduce modern urban farming technologies within the city, aiming to address food shortages and strengthen food security. The effort includes converting idle land into urban farms and leveraging innovative agricultural techniques.

Exploring Modern Farming Techniques

On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Mayor Domagoso visited Metro Pacific Fresh Farms (MPFF) in San Rafael, Bulacan, to observe their urban farming practices. MPFF Director Shahar Turgeman demonstrated the facility’s use of controlled-environment agriculture to efficiently and consistently produce vegetables Manila Bulletin.

Plans for Manila’s Urban Spaces

According to Mayor Domagoso, the city government is actively planning to transform open and unused spaces within Manila into urban farming areas. This move is intended to bolster the local food supply and reduce reliance on external sources The Tribune.

Investment in Training and Infrastructure

The city has already inspected a 23-hectare property in Boystown Manila as a potential agricultural site. The city received P463,343.62 worth of tool kits and training equipment from TESDA to support local training institutions preparing for these urban farming initiatives DZRH.

International Collaboration and Knowledge Gathering

Mayor Domagoso and city officials have engaged in international collaborations to learn best practices in urban farming. A delegation visited Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education College East Horticulture Technology Hub, Republic Polytechnic, and National University of Singapore (NUS) to assess how smart agriculture systems could be adapted for Manila’s urban environment Manila Bulletin.

Discussions were likewise held with Israeli representatives regarding water-efficient systems and modern farming methods suitable for limited spaces, and with officials from the Department of Agriculture to explore high-density urban gardening initiatives The Tribune.

Looking Ahead

The city government is now focused on integrating national agencies, local government units, and the private sector to pilot urban food production initiatives. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of Manila’s urban farming program Manila Bulletin.