HB04081: AN ACT PROMOTING INTEGRATED URBAN AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN ALL CITIES AND METROPOLITAN AREAS NATIONWIDE TO ADDRESS FOOD SECURITY CONCERNS AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
This bill, known as the "Integrated Urban Agricultural Act," seeks to promote integrated urban agriculture development in all cities and metropolitan areas nationwide to address food security concerns. Recognizing agriculture as a fundamental aspect of the Philippine economy and the declining number of farmers, particularly young ones, the bill proposes urban agriculture as a sustainable alternative method for food production. Urban agriculture, defined as the practice of agricultural production of food and goods in urban areas, is seen as a means to improve city ecosystems, reduce carbon footprints, and provide residents with sufficient, safe, and nutritious food sources.
The bill establishes the National Agriculture and Fisheries Council (NAF Council) to monitor the implementation of the Act, develop a unified strategy to link agricultural production to nutrition programs, and conduct studies on food production and sustainable food systems. It also mandates the inclusion of urban agriculture in the academic curriculum from elementary to tertiary levels, and in the National Service Training Program (NSTP) or Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC). Furthermore, local government units (LGUs) are encouraged to formulate policies on urban agriculture and incentivize participation from homeowners' associations and businesses. This legislation is a significant step towards ensuring food security, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering a positive connection to farming within urban communities.