CATBALOGAN CITY — Samar is expanding its adoption of modern, climate-resilient agricultural technologies following the groundbreaking of a ₱5-million automated greenhouse dedicated to high-value crop production and technical training.
Driving Agricultural Innovation in Central Samar
The Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office 8, through its High Value Crops Development Program, has officially initiated construction on the 1,000-square-meter facility located in Barangay San Vicente, Catbalogan City.
The controlled-environment facility is engineered to optimize the yield of capsicum, commonly known as sweet pepper, by integrating automated environmental controls and advanced cultivation methods for high-value crops.
Samar Gov. Sharee Ann Tan highlighted that the installation will serve a dual purpose as both a commercial-scale production site and an experiential learning hub for local farmers, agricultural extension workers, and students.
“The facility demonstrates the province’s commitment to agricultural innovation, increased productivity, and expanded opportunities for our farmers,” Tan stated, emphasizing the role of modern infrastructure in building rural economic capacity.
Fostering Climate Resilience Through Strategic Collaboration
The initiative underscores the necessity of government-led technological interventions to insulate vulnerable crop sectors from unpredictable weather patterns:
Climate Adaptation: DA Undersecretary for Operations Arrey Perez emphasized that strong cooperation between government agencies and local producers is vital for navigating the impacts of climate change on traditional farming.
Capacity Building: Beyond direct crop output, the facility will host structured training programs on modern, climate-smart farm management, promoting a transition away from high-risk open-field cultivation.
Inter-Agency Support: The project commenced with an official groundbreaking ceremony—featuring a site blessing, time capsule placement, and ceremonial shoveling—attended by 1st District Rep. Jimboy Tan, 2nd District Rep. Reynolds Michael Tan, Vice Gov. Arnold Tan, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Samar, and representatives from various national agencies.
Scaling Sustainable Agriculture Across the Province
The automated greenhouse aligns with broader regional strategies to establish sustainable, technology-driven farming systems. By demonstrating the commercial viability of controlled-environment agriculture in Catbalogan City, the facility aims to drive wider adoption of climate-smart practices among growers throughout Samar.
