Soldiers armed with plows key for a just and lasting peace

By DPAO, 8ID PA
January 27, 2016

STA. RITA, Samar – The 52nd Infantry (Catch ‘Em) Battalion under the leadership of Lt. Col. Nedy C. Espulgar has fully operationalized its “organic farming project” inside Battalion headquarters in Brgy Caticugan, Sta. Rita, Samar since August last year. This innovative project which showcases a people-centered integrated organic farming is aimed to help uplift the social and economic well-being of soldiers, CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) members, and their dependents.

Lt. Col Espulgar is the former commander of 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion stationed in Kananga, Leyte. In his stint as 19IB commander, he promoted a unique approach to peace and development through sustainable agriculture. Various farmers’ organizations, youth and women sectors in the hinterlands of Leyte were clustered to become organic food producers and farmers.

He also made a significant role in the integration of former rebels into the mainstream society through extensive in-house trainings and seminars on farming. Known as Peace Advocacy for Collaboration and Empowerment, the project has provided livelihood opportunities and extra income for the growing number of ex-rebels.

The centerpiece of the “organic farming project” is the production of high-value crops (fruits and ornamental plants) such as eggplant, lettuce, potato, upland spinach, bitter gourd, bell pepper, herbal plants, and different varieties of ornamental plants. Sooner, the endeavor will expand to livestock production of chickens and swine and “Tilapia” aquaculture farming. The official launching for the project is tentatively scheduled in the second week of February.