In celebration of World Food Day, the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), through its Extension and Research Directorates, partnered with local government units (LGUs) and schools for the establishment of Community Foodscapes and Seedbanks for Indigenous Food Plants, which aims to promote food security, biodiversity conservation, and community resilience by integrating indigenous crops into local food systems.

Held at Eladio V. Barangan Memorial Elementary School (EVBMES) in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, the activity gathered barangay officials from Brgy. 1 (San Roque) and Brgy. 6 (Parut) in Vintar, parent-teacher and student leaders of EVBMES, and two Agricultural Extension Workers, forming the second batch of partner sites of the MMSU Indigenous Food Plants (IFP) Program.

The collaboration between MMSU, the Municipal Agriculture Office of Vintar, and participating communities demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing food security and biodiversity conservation. Through this partnership, the foodscape sites will also function as seedbanks and learning gardens, promoting knowledge exchange among stakeholders. Communities will receive planting materials and technical support from MMSU experts to establish foodscapes that highlight the value of indigenous crops such as kapaskapas, alokon, pako, dalayap, wild singkamas, and roselle.

Dr. Menisa A. Antonio, Senior Science Research Specialist and Chief of Technology and Consultancy Services, discussed the nutritional and health benefits of Ilocano indigenous food plants, as well as their propagation, cultivation, and sustainable use. She emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-being, Responsible Consumption and Production, and Life Below Water.

By engaging schools, learning sites, and barangays, the project builds a holistic ecosystem of collaboration, nurturing the next generation through education, empowering farmers through demonstration, and strengthening household participation through community gardens.

Ms. Rolen A. Oracion, Principal of EVBMES, expressed appreciation for the partnership. “This partnership is more than just academic or environmental; it reflects a shared vision. Initiatives like this remind us of the power of local action and collaboration in conserving indigenous crops,” she said.

The newly engaged partners join existing foodscape sites in Sarrat and Batac, becoming part of a growing network of local champions advocating for sustainable food systems in Ilocos Norte.