The City Agriculture Office, headed by Mr. Argay B. Ramirez, in partnership with the City Health Office–Nutrition Division under Ms. Christy R. Flotildes, RND, spearheaded the Search for the Best Communal Garden on August 29, 2025, at the CDRRMO Multi-purpose Covered Court.
A total of 21 barangays across Iriga City proudly showcased their communal gardens in line with Memorandum Circular No. 2023-001, which mandates the implementation of the Halina Magtanim ng Prutas at Gulay (HAPAG) sa Barangay Project.
The panel of judges included Ms. Dindy Deanne Orit of CBSUA, Ms. Rosita De Lumen of the Department of Agriculture, and Ms. Leonor Vargas of Tanchuling Hospital. Their expertise ensured a fair and comprehensive evaluation of the participating barangays’ gardening initiatives.
Mayor Rex C. Oliva expressed his support for the initiative, recognizing its role in promoting food security, health, and nutrition among Irigueños. Also, Councilor Dandreb Abonite (Committee on Agriculture), Councilor JM Grimaldo (Committee on Health), and Councilor Melnan Murallo-Asanza personally attended the event to extend their support to the program.
Source: Lungsod Ng Iriga