The Bayanihang Pagbibinhi sa Barangay (BANHI) Project was formally handed over by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in collaboration with the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) to the communities of Sagrada and Sta Clara, Buhi, Camarines Sur on March 27, 2025.
With the support of the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Sagrada and Sta. Clara, ADRA and CBSUA successfully facilitated the handover ceremony. The ADRA team, led by Food Security Officer Jessa Mae G. Azarcon, presented the project’s goal of promoting sustainable agriculture. Joining her was Daniel Villaraza, the Behavioral
Change Communication Assistant (Volunteer), along with Field Officer of Buhi and Ocampo, Ma. Mercy Primo, representing the TOGETHER project manager, Lovely Joy Alvar. Ms. Primo spearheaded the official turnover of BANHI and presented the crux of BAYANIHAN, a Filipino tradition of community unity, which is integral to the project’s success.
Barangay Chairpersons Hon. Miguela Martinez of Sagrada and Hon. Rudyard C. Pesimo of Sta Clara accepted the project with great appreciation. Hon. Pesimo shared his thoughts on the project and pointed out that “BAYANIHAN” is a deeply rooted Filipino value that encourages the collective cooperation within a community in sharing their time and talent to drive progress and prosperity—the value which was reintroduced to their locality through the project BANHI. He likened binhi (seed) to a symbol of hope, explaining that just as a seed grows, it embodies the potential for a better future.
The event also saw participation from a CBSUA representative. On behalf of Extension Services Division Director Dr. Vladimir R. Foronda, ESD-TCEU Head Abigail V. Guinoo delivered the keynote address and encouraged both barangays to consider passing an ordinance promoting urban gardening per household. Ms. Guinoo also assured them that CBSUA remains committed to providing necessary support and assistance throughout the
project’s implementation.
Following the turnover ceremony, attendees toured the BANHI project sites in Sagrada and Sta. Clara. The event was also attended by barangay LGU officials, including the Sangguniang Kabataan, and farmers who are beneficiaries of the project. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘈𝘣𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘦𝘭 𝘙𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘍. 𝘉𝘰𝘣𝘪𝘴
