True to the adage, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime,” the NLEX-SCTEX Community Farm has been instrumental in improving food security and generating sustainable income for residents of Barangay Pio in Porac, Pampanga.
Since its launch in 2024, the 650-square-meter farm has yielded over 1,200 kilograms of produce, including pechay, eggplants, white onions, and other vegetables. The farm employs both traditional and hydroponic farming methods, ensuring consistent and healthy harvests.
“Hydroponic farming was new to us, and we’re fortunate to have been trained to apply this method in our community farm,” said Magdalena David, Farm Operations Supervisor. “It has significantly increased both the speed and volume of our harvests, which translates to greater potential income.”
David added, “It’s a huge help knowing we have something to rely on when times are tough.”
Larry Serrano, General Manager of the Ilug Kamalig Agriculture Cooperative (IKAC) and a volunteer at the farm, shared that the project has sparked interest in sustainable farming among fellow residents. “We’ve inspired others to start growing their own vegetables, even in small spaces. Many have now begun planting in their own backyards,” he said.
“This farm reflects the spirit of Bayanihan,” said NLEX Vice President for Communication and Stakeholder Management Donna Faylona-Marcelo. “It goes beyond providing access to healthy and affordable food—it also empowers individuals to earn extra income and promotes collaboration between communities and organizations.”
The NLEX-SCTEX Community Farm is a joint effort between NLEX Corporation, its employees, IKAC officers, and volunteers. It supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
NLEX Corporation is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the tollway development arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC).
