BACOLOD City — The Bacolod City Government has allocated P9 million to strengthen food security and expand livelihood opportunities through its Sustainable Program for Resilient and Optimum Urban Transformation (SPROUT).
The initiative was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the city government and several community-based organizations on March 31, at the Bacolod City Government Center lobby.
The funding will support various sectors, including homeowners’ associations, transport groups, fisherfolk, and farmers.
Among the beneficiaries are the Gardenville Homeowners Association, Senior Citizen Association of Purok San Dionisio, Central Area Federation of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association of Bacolod City (CAFTODA), Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bacolod Fisherfolks Federation, Bacolod City Integrated Small Farmers Federation, and the Federation of Homeowners Associations.
City offices such as the Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) and the City Development and Planning Office will also take part in implementing special projects under the program.
Funding allocations vary per organization, ranging from P500,000 to as much as P3 million to P5 million, depending on the scope and needs of proposed projects.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said the program provides crucial support, particularly for fisherfolk who are often unable to work during adverse weather conditions.
“Through SPROUT, they can access alternative livelihood opportunities to sustain their income,” the mayor said.
Farmers are also expected to benefit, as the program promotes the expansion of planting areas, which could lead to increased agricultural output and a more stable local food supply.
By maximizing available land, including idle and underutilized spaces, the city aims to reduce dependence on external food sources.
A key component of SPROUT is urban greening, which encourages communities—especially homeowners’ associations—to cultivate vacant lots and transform them into productive urban farms.
This approach not only improves food availability but also contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable environment, Gasataya added.
Funded under the city’s 20% Development Fund, SPROUT focuses on priority areas such as food sustainability, livelihood generation, urban greening, market access facilitation, and improved waste management systems.
Gasataya described the program as a major step toward building a more resilient and self-sustaining Bacolod.
However, challenges remain for local producers. Farmers have raised concerns over rising fuel costs, which continue to affect their operations.
Judy Jenson Sr., president of the Bacolod City Integrated Small Farmers Federation, said delivery expenses have significantly increased.
As the city rolls out the SPROUT program, local officials and stakeholders expressed hope that sustained funding, innovation, and community participation will help secure a stable food system and improved livelihoods for residents./PN
