San Rafael, Bulacan
May 28, 2025

In a significant step toward modernizing Philippine agriculture and enhancing the country’s food security, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visited and toured Metro Pacific Fresh Farms (MPFF) at Barangay Salapungan in San Rafael, Bulacan.

The President was joined in the tour by Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Manuel V. Pangilinan, along with key executives of Metro Pacific Agro Ventures Inc. (MPAV).

Jovy Hernandez (MPAV President and CEO) briefed President Marcos Jr. on MPFF’s 3.5-hectare greenhouse operations, providing crucial insights into modern agricultural technology aimed at ensuring a sufficient supply of vegetables through hydroponics.

Under this new business venture, MPFF promotes healthier diets and encourages Filipinos to eat more vegetables through the ‘More Veggies Please’ brand. The farm employs sustainable practices, including rainwater collection and water-efficient Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) systems, making it nine (9) times more productive than traditional farming methods.

Hernandez emphasized the importance of technology transfer to local farmers, enabling them to build their own greenhouses and foster a sustainable ecosystem. Future plans include establishing satellite greenhouses nationwide to support the government’s food security goals.

He highlighted agriculture’s vital role in nation-building and expressed hope that modern technology would attract youth back to farming, thereby fostering a healthier, more self-sufficient Philippines.

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