The research team of the project entitled, “Participatory Approach in Assessing and Promoting Women-led Permaculture among Selected Permaculture Sites in the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR) Sectors in the Philippines” from the University of the Philippines Open University Faculty of Management and Development Studies (UPOU FMDS) conducted a three-day data collection activity from 26-28 February 2026 in Pitogo, Quezon. This is part of a Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST PCAARD) – funded project aimed at strengthening women-led permaculture initiatives in the Philippines. The project seeks to examine how women-led permaculture practices can enhance food security, community resilience, and sustainable resource management.

The study is led by Assoc. Prof. Finaflor F. Taylan, Project Leader and Dean of the FMDS. Joining the data collection activities were Tiffany Catbagan, Project Technical Assistant I, Raizza Anna Alforja, Project Staff, and Dr. Jabez Joshua Flores, UPOU FMDS Senior Lecturer.

On 26 February 2026, the research team conducted key informant interviews with officials from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Pitogo, Quezon. Interviewees included the Municipal Mayor, Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Person, representatives from the Municipal Agriculturist Office, the local office of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Municipal Nutrition Action Office, the Municipal Tourism Office, and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office. These interviews aimed to gather insights on existing programs, policy support, and potential institutional partnerships for promoting women-led permaculture initiatives, specifically, for HAPAG KAY PBBM (Halina’t Magtanim ng Prutas at Gulay – Kadiwa’y Yaman – Plants for Bountiful Barangays Movement) Community Gardens.

With the support of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) of Pitogo, Quezon, the research team was also able to meet with and visit members of the Fruits and Vegetables Growers Association (FVGA) of Barangay Nag-Cruz, a women-led organization supported through funding from the Okada Foundation. The team likewise met Ms. Gayzil Lorica, a former FVGA member and entrepreneur-farmer, who is the founder of Backyard ni QueenBee, a local initiative that promotes sustainable backyard farming and community-based food production.

The team also conducted a focus group discussion and surveys with members of the 4K Association of Barangay Pinagbayanan and community gardeners from Barangay Amontay. Participants shared their experiences in community gardening, challenges in sustaining food production, and perspectives on strengthening women’s leadership in local agricultural initiatives.

On 28 February 2026, the researchers held a key informant interview and focus group discussion with the staff of Glinoga Integrated Farm. Discussions centered on sustainable farming practices, community engagement strategies, and opportunities for scaling up permaculture models led by women.

Preliminary results indicate that community members and local stakeholders are open and receptive to promoting women-led permaculture in community gardens, particularly as a strategy for enhancing household food security and local sustainability. The positive response from both local officials and community groups underscores the potential for collaborative efforts in strengthening women’s roles in the Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (AANR) sectors.

The research team will consolidate findings from the Pitogo site along with data from other selected locations to develop recommendations that can inform policies and programs supporting women-led permaculture initiatives nationwide.

This project aims to contribute to the fulfillment of:

  • SDG 4: Quality Education
  • SDG 5: Gender Equality
  • SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • SDG 13: Climate Action
  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Written by: Tiffany Leanne Catbagan • Edited by: Larry N. Cruz

Sustainable Development Goals