The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) MIMAROPA promotes sustainable agriculture across 19 jail facilities in the MIMAROPA region through the HAPAG (Halina’t Magtanim ng Prutas at Gulay) program.
BJMP MIMAROPA said that HAPAG aims to support the daily nutrition of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) while strengthening the jail’s capacity for sustainable agriculture.
According to BJMP MIMAROPA Regional Information Officer Joefrie Anglo, the project seeks to enhance the nutritional intake of inmates by providing them with access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
He said the HAPAG also aims to develop self-sustaining agricultural practices within the jails, creating long-term benefits for both the inmates and the facilities.
On its social media page, BJMP-Puerto Princesa City Jail Male Dormitory proudly showcased their mini garden, designed as a space where the jail community can freely plant and harvest nutritious food.
Meanwhile, BJMP-San Jose District Jail takes pride in their urban organic garden, which grows a variety of produce including eggplants, basil, upo, tomatoes, small chili peppers, and ampalaya.
BJMP MIMAROPA Director Clarence Mayangao emphasized that the HAPAG Program is a key focus for the bureau, with ongoing efforts to ensure the availability of high-quality food sources across the region’s facilities.
Under the program, the Department of Agriculture (DA) provides technical assistance, seeds, seedlings, fertilizers and pesticides, while the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) supports with training and implementation efforts, helping to make the initiative a success. (AS/PIA MIMAROPA/With photos and information from BJMP MIMAROPA)