Growing Hope in Every Corner: “Bayanihan sa Barangay Part 3” Blossoms in Triangulo Through Urban Gardening and Faith-Inspired Unity

BARANGAY TRIANGULO, NAGA CITY --- MAY 5, 2026.

In a powerful expression of faith, solidarity, and environmental stewardship, Barangay Triangulo once again became a living testimony of “bayanihan” as residents, partners, and institutions gathered for “Bayanihan sa Barangay – Part 3: Gulayan sa Barangay para sa Nutrisyon at Kabuhayan.” The initiative, held from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Barangay Nursery near Jose Rizal Elementary School in Triangulo, Naga City, transformed a simple community space into a flourishing symbol of hope, sustainability, and shared mission.

Anchored on the theme “Luntiang Barangay: Sama-samang Pagtatanim Tungo sa Masagana, Malusog, at Matatag na Pamayanan,” the activity emphasized that caring for creation is both a civic responsibility and a Christian calling reflecting the Church’s teaching on stewardship of God’s gifts and care for our common home.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the development thrusts of the Government of the Philippines, the initiative reflected a deeper spiritual truth: that genuine progress is born from unity, compassion, and shared responsibility.

The local slogan “Barangay Triangulo, Padangat Ko” echoed throughout the day, not merely as words but as a declaration of communal faith affirming that transformation is possible when people work together under the guidance of God’s providence.

Spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office V, led by Regional Executive Director Rodel P. Tornilla and Assistant Regional Director Dr. Mary Grace D.P. Rodriguez, the program provided high-value seeds, organic fertilizers, tools, seedlings, and technical support for sustainable urban gardening.

With guidance from educational session on Urban Gardening and Edible Landscaping led by Rosita C. De Lumen, Head of the Organic Research and Development Center of the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office V and assistance from Mr. Ernesto Asence III and Sir Alvin of the City Agriculture Office, residents , stakeholders and students were educated on vegetable production, composting, and edible landscaping. These efforts turned idle spaces into productive gardens growing pechay, kangkong, tomatoes, malunggay, lemon, and guyabano symbols of life, nourishment, and resilience.

Health and environmental advocates underscored that such initiatives strengthen food security, reduce household expenses, and promote healthier diets an affirmation echoed by global and national health principles promoting nutrition and well-being.

The success of the initiative was made possible through the collective efforts of both public and private partners.

The Metropolitan Naga Water District, led by Manager Florencio “Jun” T. Mongoso Jr., donated lemon and guyabano seedlings to various barangay offices and the community nursery. Private contributors such as Engr. Ramon Pabico and Mrs. Ana Ranara provided soil and earthfill, while Barangay agricultural technicians Fe Cortina Mañago and Victorino Reyes offered technical support.

Hospitality and generosity were also evident as Mr. Edmundo Alpapara and companions prepared hot meals for participants, while spouses Arnold and Monaliza Bermudo provided refreshments small acts that reflected the spirit of Christian charity.

Law enforcement officers under Police Colonel Gilbert P. Fariñas and Police Major Louie C. Ordoñez Jr. of Station 5 ensured safety and order, extending community support as part of their service mission.

A deeply inspiring dimension of the project was its spiritual foundation, led by Bayanihan Para ki Ina, Inc., in partnership with health and academic leaders including Dr. Stanley O. Dy, RN, RM, MAN, PhD, and Mrs. Emmaloi Alvarez-Ilano of the Philippine Nurses Association – Naga City Chapter.

Students from Naga College Foundation’s College of Health Sciences, BSN 4D Group 13, actively facilitated Community Organizing Participatory Action Research (COPAR), proving that the youth are not only future leaders but present-day servants of transformation.

Tokens of faith, including Divine Mercy items shared by Mr. Lehmann, added a spiritual dimension to the gathering, reminding participants that every act of service is also an act of devotion.

Beyond food production, the initiative also strengthened environmental resilience. Urban gardens improved water absorption, reduced flooding risks, and promoted waste reduction through composting small yet meaningful steps toward ecological healing. But more importantly, it cultivated something deeper: community unity rooted in faith. Neighbors worked side by side, planting not only vegetables but also trust, cooperation, and hope. In doing so, the barangay reflected a living expression of Catholic social teaching—where human dignity, solidarity, and care for creation meet in everyday action.

As Barangay Triangulo continues its journey, “Bayanihan sa Barangay Part 3” stands as a reminder that transformation does not always begin in grand institutions, but often in small gardens, shared meals, and united hearts. In the words echoed by the community’s guiding spirit, “Barangay Triangulo, Padangat Ko” has become more than a slogan it is a prayer in action, a commitment to stewardship, and a promise of a greener, healthier, and more compassionate future. In every seed planted, the community finds a reflection of faith: that God’s providence grows best where hands are willing to serve and hearts are united in love.

Almighty God, Creator of all life, we thank You for the gift of our community and the opportunity to care for Your creation. Bless the seeds we plant, the hands that work, and the hearts that serve in unity and love. May our efforts in urban gardening bring food to the hungry, health to every family, and hope to our barangay. Teach us to be good stewards of the earth and faithful servants of one another. Guide us to grow not only plants, but also compassion, cooperation, and faith. Through Christ our Lord. AMEN