City, cops advances community mushroom production

Under the leadership of Mayor Leni Robredo, the city government of Naga, in collaboration with the Community Mobile Force Company of the Naga City Police Office, is actively pursuing its community mushroom production project in the barangays of Balatas, Concepcion Grande, and Panicuason.

The initiative aims to provide additional livelihood opportunities to local communities, helping families augment their income. The project focuses on the cultivation and processing of oyster mushrooms, transforming the perishable crop into value-added products such as mushroom chips, mushroom chicharon, mushroom cupcakes, pickled mushrooms (mushroom atchara), and mushroom biscuits.

City Agriculturist Ernesto Asence III highlighted the importance of processing oyster mushrooms due to their short shelf life. “Processing not only extends the mushroom's usability but also increases its market value,” he explained. The program is innovating by drying and powdering oyster mushrooms, offering an alternative to MSG as a natural taste enhancer.

The mushroom project forms part of a broader urban agriculture program to promote food security. Beneficiaries are encouraged to plant green and leafy vegetables in their backyards, while those in highly urbanized areas are guided to grow plants in containers. Barangay agriculture technicians are designated to support and mentor these urban growers, ensuring sustainable production.

The City Population and Nutrition Office (CPNO) also plays a critical role in the program, assisting in community nutrition and health alongside agricultural development, and the city’s Metro PESO for product marketing.

This multifaceted approach reflects the city government’s commitment to sustainable livelihood, food security, and community empowerment in Naga City. Jason B. Neola