JHMC office garden harvest tops 200 kilograms

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) has harvested about 200 kilograms of vegetables from a workplace garden established within its office premises, supporting government efforts to promote food security, sustainability and community wellness.

The initiative, known as the office “Gulayan” project, was launched in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen sustainable food production and supports the goals of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, according to JHMC.

The project initially focused on cultivating Sultan chili before expanding to include Romaine lettuce, Green Ice lettuce and chayote.

Additional crops such as potatoes, Baguio beans, eggplant, strawberries, corn and tomatoes were later introduced as the garden developed.

JHMC also incorporated fruit-bearing plants including lemon, dulce fruits and passion fruit, as well as herbal varieties such as lemongrass, broadening both production and learning opportunities within the program.

The garden is maintained by General Forest Care and Gardening personnel under the technical supervision of JHMC’s Environment Management Division.

Beyond food production, the project serves as a practical learning platform for employees, providing hands-on experience in crop cultivation, maintenance and harvesting.

JHMC said the initiative aims to enhance skills development while promoting environmental stewardship and workplace innovation.

Harvested produce is distributed among employees, demonstrating the benefits of small-scale food production and encouraging healthier and more sustainable practices within the workplace.

JHMC said harvest monitoring remains ongoing as additional crops mature, with the project expected to continue contributing to food security awareness and sustainability efforts within the corporation.

(This report is based on information released by the John Hay Management Corporation)