Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso visited Metro Pacific Fresh Farms (MPFF) in San Rafael, Bulacan, on Wednesday, February 18, to explore modern urban farming technologies that could be introduced in the capital.

During the visit, MPFF Director Shahar Turgeman briefed the mayor on the greenhouse facility’s operations, highlighting the use of controlled-environment agriculture to produce vegetables efficiently and consistently. The visit is part of Moreno’s plan to convert idle and open spaces in Manila into urban farming areas, aiming to strengthen the city’s local food supply.

In recent weeks, the mayor met with representatives from the Singapore Food Agency to study food safety regulations and supply management systems for high-density urban areas. He also engaged with Israeli experts on water-efficient agricultural technologies and modern farming methods suited for limited spaces. Discussions with the Department of Agriculture (DA) have been held to support high-density urban gardening initiatives.

As part of these efforts, Moreno inspected a 23-hectare property in Boystown, Manila, being considered for agricultural use. He also received ₱463,343.62 worth of tool kits and training equipment from TESDA for local training institutions, supporting broader preparations for urban farming programs.