GROWQC among finalists in 2021 Galing Pook Awards

MANILA, Philippines — Quezon City’s food security initiative that sought to strengthen urban agriculture to provide food for the communities during the pandemic has been chosen one of the finalists in this year’s Galing Pook Awards.

Mayor Joy Belmonte said the city’s food security program, dubbed “GROWQC: Kasama ka sa Pag-unlad, Kabuhayan at Kalusugan,” was cited after the award-giving body recognized how the program was able to make communities self-reliant through urban farming.

“Food security is central, but I don’t think any city has a grassroots food security action plan laid out, which is why I am grateful to the QC Food Security Task Force for doing its part and making sure that we are able to extend relief to those who need it,” Belmonte said during a United Nations forum recently.

“I am looking forward to presenting what GROWQC has cultivated across the city, and the positive ripple effect that ensuring food security has had on the lives of the underprivileged,” Belmonte added.

She said the local government has established 166 garden sites and feeding stations in the city where residents can tend to local produce intended for “nutrition, comfort and mental relief” of participating indigent residents.

Launched in 1993, the Galing Pook Awards recognize the innovative practices of local government units (LGUs) to improve the quality of life of their constituents.

LGU finalists go through evaluation and screening processes based on positive results and impact, the promotion of people’s participation and empowerment, innovation, transferability and sustainability as well as efficiency of program service delivery.

The awarding ceremony will be held in October, coinciding with the 30th year of the enactment of the Local Government Code.