0 ABOUT THE PROJECT Aquaculture Project for Sustainable Type of Project: Development and Lifestyle Enhancement Group 1 of 12 HUMSS B Angel Mongado Francenne Villaruz Isaiah Jeul Osia Organizers: Jeffrey Salvino III Juliana Marie Encinas Ma. Kristina Melquiades Rabb Gavin de Castro Sophia Alene Abdon Project Beneficiaries: Residents of Sitio Ibayo Location: Sitio Ibayo, San Mateo, Rizal Date of Implementation/Duration: May 2023 – September 2023 Area of Project of Implementation: Sitio Ibayo, San Mateo, Rizal 1 II. Objectives: 1. Increase the source of nourishment and access to fresh, healthy, and sustainable food options for the low-income residents of Sitio Ibayo. 2. To ease the financial worries of the residents by decreasing their expenditures on food. 3. Promote community engagement and education on sustainable agriculture practices. 4. Improve environmental sustainability within the community by utilizing a closed-loop system that minimizes water usage and waste. 5. To promote environmentally sustainable practices among the residents that reduce the community's carbon footprint. 6. Launch the aquaponics farm and make it fully functional and ready for communal use within five months of the launch date. III. Overview/Background of the Project Sitio Ibayo, nestled within the first-class municipality of San Mateo Rizal, is a remote community characterized by its low-lying location. It is a part of the urban barangay of Dulong Bayan 1, which is home to over 5000 inhabitants, including those residing in Sitio Ibayo. However, in contrast to its neighboring areas, Sitio Ibayo is noticeably less developed, reflecting an apparent disparity in its level of socio-economic progress. (Antonio, 2019) 2 Visual Shot of Sitio Ibayo, San Mateo, Rizal The area is more notably characterized by its poor living conditions. Poverty and unemployment are prevalent, making it difficult for residents to afford nutritious food. The community faces challenges in accessing proper sustenance due to limited economic opportunities, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of access to fresh produce, exacerbating food insecurity and malnutrition among the residents, particularly vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women. With that, we have formulated a sustainable solution to combat this challenge, an aquaponics farm. Aquaponics is a type of integrated agricultural system that combines aquaculture, or fish farming, with hydroponics, or soil-less plant cultivation. The system operates in a symbiotic manner, where fish waste provides nutrients for plant growth, while the plants filter and purify the water for the fish. In an aquaponics system, fish are raised in tanks or other containers, and their waste produces ammonia, which is converted into nitrites and then nitrates by beneficial bacteria. The nutrient-rich water from the fish tanks is then 3 circulated to hydroponic grow beds, where plants are grown in water containing these nutrients. The plants take up the nutrients, which act as fertilizer, and in the process, they remove the pollutants from the water, making it safe to be recirculated back to the fish tanks. This closed-loop system reduces the need for external fertilizers and eliminates the need for chemical treatments to maintain water quality, making aquaponics a sustainable and environmentally friendly method of food production. Diagram of an Aquaponics System Using Media-Based Design This sustainable solution poses positive environmental impacts for the area, which is beneficial amidst the poor living conditions the community faces. Aquaponics promotes sustainable food production by using minimal water compared to traditional soil-based agriculture and eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers, reducing the environmental 4 burden. Tajer (2021) mentions that Aquaponics relies on the nutrients produced by the interaction of freshwater fish and plants as they develop a symbiotic relationship in a controlled environment. This means that the water is recirculated around the Aquaponics from the fish tank to the plants. Consequently, water is conserved compared to the traditional farming method because of its water loop system. While establishing this system will ultimately enhance the quality of life and sustainability in Sitio Ibayo, the main beneficiaries of this project would be its residents. By implementing a communal aquaponics farm at the heart of the community, this project will be able to provide a consistent supply of fresh produce to its residents year-round, regardless of the climate or season. This can help address issues of food scarcity and provide a reliable source of nourishment for less fortunate members of the said community, improving food security and reducing reliance on external food sources. Additionally, the production of crops will not involve the use of chemicals, as the sole source of fertilizer will come from the fish tank. This ensures that the vegetables residents receive are completely organic. As a result, the nutrients they consume will increase, leading to a healthier way of living. Moreover, Aquaponics farms can also serve as community hubs that promote engagement, collaboration, and empowerment, therefore bolstering community engagement and empowerment. 5 IV. Materials and Budget of the Project ITEMS QUANTITY PRICE(S) Fish Tank 1 pc (with the capacitance of 5000 litres) Total Price: ₱5,530.06 Note: Measurement of the tank is subject for site visit. Grow Bed Price per piece: ₱124 5 pcs (15 inches in height) Total Price: ₱620 Water Pump 2 pcs (pumps 250 gallons per hour) Price per piece: ₱900 Total Price: ₱1,800 Air Pump with Air Stones 1 pc PVC Piping with Fittings 5 pcs (per meter) 6 Total Price: ₱1,052.00 Price per meter: ₱35 Total Price: ₱175 Uniseals and/or Buckheads 4 pcs Price per 4 pieces ½ inch: ₱140 Total Price: ₱140 A Siphon of your choice 1 pc (bell siphon) Total Price: ₱864 Rockwool Seed Starting Cubes 50 pcs Total Price: ₱353.00 (one set) Price per piece: ₱55 Seed Starting Tray 3 pcs (72 holes) 7 Total Price: ₱165 Water Testing Kit 1 pc Total Price: ₱1,135.82 (one kit) 1 pc Total Price: ₱328.62 15 pcs Total Price: ₱1867.67 1 pack Total Price: ₱90 EC or TDS Meter Tilapia (all male) Okra (Lady Fingers) Seedlings 8 Kangkong Seedlings 1 pack Total Price: ₱90 1 pack Total Price: ₱160 Sweet Potato Slips GRAND TOTAL PRICE: ₱14,371.17 9 The following are the chosen sponsorships to further aid the success of Aqualusugan: INSTITUTION/ORGANIZATION ABOUT A social development organization that addresses poverty and hunger through various programs, including livelihood training, community Ahon sa Hirap, Inc. development, and food assistance. They provide meals to marginalized communities and work towards sustainable solutions to poverty and hunger. A government agency responsible for the formulation, implementation, and coordination of policies, programs, and projects related to agricultural development, food security, and rural Department of Agriculture (DA) livelihoods. The DA aims to promote sustainable agriculture and fisheries, increase productivity, and improve the competitiveness of the agriculture and fisheries sectors. Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources A government agency responsible for the sustainable management, development, and 10 conservation of the country's fisheries and aquatic resources. A government agency responsible for formulating and implementing health policies and programs in the Philippines. It is tasked with ensuring the Department of Health (DoH) availability, accessibility, and quality of health services, as well as promoting health and disease prevention. Agro-Eco Philippines, Inc. is a social enterprise that aims to promote sustainable agriculture practices and support rural communities in the Philippines. They offer training and education Agro-Eco Philippines, Inc. programs for farmers, as well as provide access to markets for their products. They also prioritize environmental conservation and biodiversity preservation in their initiatives. Assisi Development Foundation is a non-stock, non-profit corporation which aims to help the poor Assisi Development Foundation and the oppressed become economically secure, Inc. (ADFI) socially responsible and morally mature by making available: a) sustainable agricultural technology, 11 farm implements & tools; b) education (formal and non-formal); c) medical assistance, facilities and health care alternatives; and d) opportunities for leadership and livelihood, skills training, and values/ spiritual formation. The Aqua-lusugan project is in partnership with: PARTNER DESCRIPTION The Municipal Government of San Mateo Rizal is responsible for the administration of local government services within the municipality. They have various departments that cater to different aspects of community development such as Municipal Government of health, education, agriculture, and social welfare. San Mateo Rizal This council can help our project by providing technical expertise, manpower in constructing the project, and other resources to ensure the success of Aqua-lusugan. Their support is also paramount to the execution of this project. The barangay officials of Dulong Bayan 1, most Barangay Officials of especially the captain, can offer various forms of Dulong Bayan 1 assistance to help achieve its goals. Firstly, they 12 can aid in connecting this project with local government agencies or non-government organizations that can provide financial or technical support. Moreover, barangay officials can provide logistical support for the project by helping secure necessary permits and approvals, and coordinating with suppliers for materials and equipment. They can also help with the mobilization of community volunteers and provide manpower for the construction and maintenance of the aquaponics farm. Lastly, they can assist in monitoring and evaluating the progress of the project by providing feedback on how to improve and sustain the project's outcomes. This way, they can also help ensure that Aqua-lusugan contributes to the community's long-term food security and livelihood. This project is also in partnership with the people of Sitio Ibayo, who are also the main beneficiaries Community Members of of Aqua-lusugan. They will be the recipient of the Sitio Ibayo food produced by the Aquaponics farm, which they may use for their daily meals. Furthermore, 13 they may also volunteer in helping maintain the farm alongside our team and the farmers. Basilio's Aquaponics Farm is a sustainable farming venture located in Cavite, Philippines. Basilio's Aquaponics Farm is committed to producing fresh, nutritious, and locally sourced Basilio’s Aquaponics Farm fish and produce while minimizing environmental impact. With their expertise, they can help the group in constructing the Aquaponics farm and also allocate their farmers to maintain and tend to the growing crops. V. Time Frame Duration: May 2023 – September 2023 WEEK 1 PREPARATION DATE May 1, 2023 10:00 AM– 10:30 AM 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM CALL TIME Planning with the team: Discussion of plans, objectives, and schedule of the project 1:00 PM– 2:00 PM BREAK 14 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM 4:30 PM Continuation of planning: Discussion of DISMISS plans, objectives, AL and schedule of the project May 2, 2023 10:00 AM– 10:30 AM 10:30 AM – 10:50 AM 1:00 PM– 2:00 PM Recap of last meeting CALL TIME May 3, 2023 Continuation of planning: Budget 10:50 AM – 1:00 PM BREAK Contact sponsors and partners Planning: Budget, sponsorships, and partners 4:30 PM DISMISS AL 1:00 PM– 2:00 PM 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM 4:30 PM BREAK Delegation of tasks and assignments DISMISS AL 1:00 PM– 2:00 PM 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM 4:30 PM CALL TIME Meeting with the full team: Aqualusugan, sponsors, and partners BREAK Briefing of the project: Details, project execution, sustainable development and lifestyle enhancement plan for Sitio Ibayo DISMISS AL 10:00 AM– 10:30 AM 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM 1:00 PM– 2:00 PM 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM 4:30 PM 10:00 AM– 10:30 AM 10:30 AM – 10:50 AM 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM Recap of last meeting CALL TIME 10:50 AM – 1:00 PM Assembling the team May 4, 2023 May 5, 10:00 AM– 10:30 AM 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM 15 2023 Recap of last meeting 10:50 AM – 1:00 PM CALL TIME Briefing of the project: Details, project execution, sustainable development and lifestyle enhancement plan for Sitio Ibayo BREAK Briefing of the project: Details, project execution, sustainable development and lifestyle enhancement plan for Sitio Ibayo DISMISS AL WEEK 2 DATE ACTIVITIES OBJECTIVES Contact barangay official and community leaders of Sitio Ibayo. Obtain authorization to conduct our “Aqua-lusugan” project in Sitio Ibayo. May 89 2023 Formally meet the the barangay official and community leaders of Sitio Ibayo. Inform the barangay official and community leaders of our objectives and intentions of helping the residents of Sitio Ibayo and improving their nourishment. May 10-12 2023 Gather all the necessary materials needed for the aquaponics farm in preparation for our project. Prepare materials for Project Aqualusugan. WEEK 3 AQUA-LUSUGAN SEMINAR – PART 1: WITH THE RESIDENTS 16 DAT E 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM OBJECTIVES Introduce our team and project, Aqua-lusugan, to the residents of Sitio Ibayo. May 15-9 2023 Hold an Aqua-lusugan seminar with the local residents of Sitio Ibayo. Let the residents our intentions with Project Aqualusugan; including our objectives and goals to improve the health and nourishment of the community. Introduce the concept of Aquaponics to the community, the basics of the system, and how it will provide them with organic and quality produce. WEEK 4-5 AQUA-LUSUGAN SEMINAR PART 2: WITH BARANGAY OFFICIAL AND COMMUNITY LEADERS DATE 10:00 AM– 10:15 AM 10:15 AM– 11:00 AM CALL TIME Orientation: The basics of the Aquaponics System May 25-26 29 2023 CALL TIME Orientation: How does an Aquaponics System work? May 30June 2 2023 CALL TIME Orientation: How to maintain an Aquaponics farm May 22-24 2023 11:00 AM– 11:30 AM 11:30 AM– 12:15 PM 12:15 PM BREAK Orientation: The basics of the Aquaponics System DISMISS AL BREAK Orientation: How does an Aquaponics System work? DISMISS AL BREAK Orientation: How to maintain an Aquaponics farm DISMISS AL 17 OBJECTIVE: Through this week-long seminar, we aim to enlighten the barangay official and community leaders of Sitio Ibayo on all things Aquaponics so that they are aware of what it is, how the aquaponics system works, and how it may improve their community and its members. Additionally, informing them of these things will grant them the knowledge to maintain the Aquaponics farm in the future, even after the Aqualusugan’s time with the project is done. WEEK 6 CONSTRUCTION OF AQUAPONICS FARM DATE 10:00 AM– 10:15 AM June 5-9 2023 CALL TIME 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM 11:00 AM Set up the water tank for the fishes. DISMISSAL WEEK 7-12 DATE June 12July 21 2023 ACTIVITIES WHY? Giving the water time to dechlorinate and go through a cycling process for about 4-6 weeks before adding Leave the water any fish allows the beneficial bacteria to establish and tank for a few weeks multiply. This ensures that there will be enough to dechlorinate. bacteria to effectively convert ammonia into nitrates, essential nutrients for plants. (Woods, 2019) WEEK 13 DAT 10:00 AM– 10:15 AM– 11:00 AM– 18 11:30 AM– 12:15 PM E 10:15 AM 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 12:15 PM July 24 2023 CALL TIME Add the fishes to the water tank. BREAK Manage the tank and the fishes. DISMISS AL July 25 2023 CALL TIME Assembling the media bed. BREAK Assembling the media bed. DISMISS AL CALL TIME Assembling the rest of the Aquaponics system (piping, pump installation, etc.) BREAK Assembling the rest of the Aquaponics system (piping, pump installation, etc.) DISMISS AL July 26-28 2023 WEEK 14-19 PLANTING AND GROWING OF CROPS DATE July 31 2023 Month of August & First Week of Sept 10:00 AM– 10:15 AM ACTIVITY CALL TIME First planting of crops in the Aquaponics farm. OBJECTIVES Planting the sweet potato slips, kangkong seedlings, and okra seedlings, placing their roots gently into the pebbles, ensuring they reach far enough down to draw nutrients from the water that will pass through. The Aqua-lusugan team along with the farmers will come back to Sitio Inayo every 2-3 days to regularly check the farm. CALL TIME Aquaponics farm maintenance. The team will take this time to ensure that the system is working properly, the crops are growing well, the fish are healthy and properly fed, and that the pH level of the water tank is neutral (between 6.8 – 7.0) 19 WEEK 20 THE FIRST HARVEST DAT E Sep 11 2023 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Harvest the first batch of produce with the Aqualusugan Project. OBJECTIVES Gather the team and carefully harvest the first batch of produce (kangong, okra, and sweet potato) from the Aquaponics farm. Put the produce in bundles to be distributed to the families of Sitio Ibayo To celebrate the first harvest of the Aqua-lusugan project with the residents of Sitio Ibayo. Sep 12 2023 Event: Aqua-lusog, Busog: Lutong Masustansya, Bida ang Kalusugan! To teach the people of Sitio Ibayo quick and easy recipes, using the crops from the Aquaponics farm, that they can incorporate in their daily meals. To promote healthier eating habits within the community and encourage the consumption of fresh, nutritious, and organic vegetables, which can contribute to improved overall health and well-being. To personally distribute the bundles of produce to the families of Sitio Ibayo. WEEK 21 AND ONWARDS What happens next? At Aqua-lusugan, our mission goes beyond the completion of the 20-week mark. While the execution and plans of our aquaponics farm initiative in Sitio Ibayo may technically be done, our commitment to the community and its members is far from over. 20 Our dedicated team will continue to visit Sitio Ibayo to ensure that the aquaponics farm is thriving and providing a sustainable source of nutrition for the residents. We will also be closely monitoring the health and well-being of the community, as their vitality is the motivation behind our efforts. But we don't stop there. We believe that the residents of Sitio Ibayo deserve access to optimal health, nourishment, and wellness, and we will continue to strive towards achieving that goal to greater extents. With unwavering dedication, we aim to maintain and expand our project while also looking towards extending our help to other communities in the Philippines that are in need. We believe that every community deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we are committed to making a lasting impact wherever our help is needed. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, using aquaponics as a catalyst for holistic health and wellness. Our commitment to the community of Sitio Ibayo is tireless, and our vision for a brighter future for all communities in need is a driving force that propels us forward. In conclusion, Aqua-lusugan is not just a project, but a long-term commitment to making a meaningful and sustainable impact on the health and well-being of communities. We are determined to continue our efforts in Sitio Ibayo and beyond, and we invite you to join us in this noble cause for the betterment of the Filipino people. Together, we can create a brighter, healthier, and more prosperous future for all. 21 VI. Procedure A. The Aqua-lusugan project plan involves the introduction of Aquaponic farming to the community of Sitio Ibayo as a means to address their issues of food scarcity and provide a reliable source of nourishment for its less fortunate residents. To do this, necessary steps must be undertaken to ensure that the team’s objectives and intentions will successfully be carried out and the residents will receive proper sustenance. With that, the group scouted for trusted sponsors and partners that will further aid them in turning their plans into action. B. Once the group has obtained authorization from the barangay official to carry out their project in the community of Sitio Ibayo, they will then pay a visit to its residents to introduce themselves, the team, and Aqua-lusugan. They will take this time to let them know their intentions with Project Aqua-lusugan; including their objectives and goals to improve the health and nourishment of the community. The group plans to do this by conducting a seminar with the local residents to truly connect with them and formally introduce the project that will enhance their day-to-day sustenance. To further aid their understanding of this initiative, visual aids, simple games, and a Q&A session will be included in the seminar to promote transparency and also strengthen their relationship with the community of Sitio Ibayo. C. Following the Aqua-lusugan seminar with the residents, another seminar will be conducted by the team; the attendees being the barangay official, community leaders, and interested volunteers of Sitio Ibayo. During this seminar, the team 22 members will educate them about the aquaponics system, its intricacies, and how the contraption works. Specifically, in this meeting, they will delve into how fish waste is transformed into beneficial bacteria that serve as nutrients for the plants. The plants, in turn, consume these nutrients for their growth and purification of water. As a result, the water is then returned to the fish tank, creating a closedloop system that requires minimal water and no chemical fertilizers. This sustainable method will provide residents with access to fresh produce and sustainable crops. Moreover, during this seminar, the team will train barangay officials and community leaders on how to maintain the aquaponics system so that it can be used by the residents of Sitio Ibayo even after the project is completed. D. After introducing the program, the members along with the team of professionals will proceed to construct the aquaponics system. This involves determining the system's size and location, selecting suitable fish and plant species, and acquiring the necessary equipment. The farm will be installed in an area situated at the heart of Sitio Ibayo, where all residents can easily access the produce once it’s ready for harvest. The next step is building a tank that can hold water and fish for the system, with enough space for water circulation. Members will also construct a grow bed that can hold the plants and position it above the fish tank to allow for gravity-based water flow. Installing a water pump in the fish tank to circulate water to the grow bed and adding media to the grow bed to provide a substrate for the plants is also crucial. After that, members need to ensure that the system is suitable for the fish before adding them to the tank, taking care not to overcrowd 23 them. Then, the team will allow the system to cycle for a few weeks to establish the nitrogen cycle, which converts fish waste (ammonia) into nitrite and then nitrate used as fertilizer by the plants. Once the nitrogen cycle is established, the group can then add the plants to the grow bed. E. After the Aquaponics farm is successfully installed, the members will be sure to revisit to check up on the project to guarantee that it is running smoothly. Meticulous measures will be taken to monitor and maintain the system, ensuring the health and growth of the fish and plants. The group, team leader, and farmers will visit the system every 2-3 days to check water quality parameters such as pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. The members will adjust the pH and nutrient levels as necessary after testing the water at least once a week to maintain optimal conditions for the fish and plants. While visiting, the members will feed the fish based on their requirements and ensure they are not overfed to prevent water quality issues (the farmers should also feed the fish twice a day). They will remove any uneaten food to avoid decomposition and water quality problems. Additionally, the members will inspect the grow media for debris or excess waste buildup that can cause poor root growth or clogging, rinse the media as needed, and ensure it provides sufficient support for the plants. Furthermore, they will also monitor the plant growth with the farmers and perform regular pruning to prevent overcrowding and promote healthy growth, and harvest mature plants to prevent overcrowding. Moreover, the members will examine the pumps and filters for proper functioning and clean or replace the filter as required to maintain optimal water flow. They will 24 maintain a logbook to record water quality parameters, fish feeding schedules, and plant growth data to identify any issues or trends that need attention. F. When the crops are ready for their first harvest, members of the group will go to Sitio Ibayo to help the farmers harvest the fresh produce and to see if the crops are growing properly. After harvesting, members will hold a seminar with residents to teach them how to prepare and cook meals using the fresh produce harvested from the Aquaponics system. Doing this will allow them to promote healthier eating habits within the community and encourage the consumption of fresh, nutritious, and organic vegetables, which can ultimately contribute to improved overall health and well-being. G. To guarantee the sustainability of the aquaponics system, an annual conference and seminar will be organized to review the progress of the farm and the harvesting of fresh produce. During this event, the group members, barangay officials, and volunteers will gather to discuss the system's progress and identify areas for improvement to ensure the project's continued development. Proper education and training will be provided to individuals or groups present during the seminar to help them comprehend the system's operation and the significance of sustainability, motivating them to maintain the system and incorporate sustainable practices. Even after the project's completion, the group can continue to work with barangay officials and farmers to guarantee the project's long-term effects on the community's health and sustainability. Along with this event, the team will also be 25 administering a satisfaction survey to the beneficiaries of the project, the residents, to determine the level of fulfillment Aqua-lusugan has brought to their nourishment and overall well-being. Conducting this annual survey may also aid the group in identifying any underlying flaws and opportunities for development. VII. Roles of the Group Members BOARD OF PERSON/S IN CHARGE RESPONSIBILITIES COMMITTEE Mrs. Maria Teresa S. Angeles FEU Roosevelt Rodriguez Campus Head This committee would consist of external experts and stakeholders who can provide valuable advice and guidance Ms. Myla E. Ranjo to the project. They would Project Adviser and 12 HUMSS- meet periodically to review the B Adviser progress of the aquaponics farm, provide strategic input, Advisory Ms. Sophia Alene Abdon Committee 12 HUMSS-B Group 1 Team Leader and offer recommendations on key decisions related to the project's operations, sustainability, and community Municipal Government of San Mateo Rizal impact. The Advisory Committee would serve as a source of expertise and insight Nelson Memdoza Antonio Barangay Captain of to support the project's success. Dulong Bayan 1 Finance Spearheaded by: 26 This committee would handle Committee Ms. Francenne Villaruz 12 HUMSS-B Group 1 Member the financial aspects of the project, including budgeting, fundraising, grant writing, and financial reporting. They would Committee Members: be responsible for developing Ms. Ma. Kristina Melquiades and implementing a financial 12 HUMSS-B plan to support the operations Group 1 Member of Aqua-lusugan, including identifying funding sources, managing expenses, and ensuring financial sustainability. They will also be working closely with the sponsors and partners of the project. This committee would be Public Relations Committee Spearheaded by: responsible for managing the Ms. Juliana Marie Encinas public affairs of Aqua-lusugan. 12 HUMSS-B They would develop and Group 1 Member implement strategies to enhance the project's public Committee Members: relations efforts, including Mr. Isaiah Jeul Osia crafting press releases, 12 HUMSS-B Group 1 Member coordinating media outreach, and managing relationships with local media outlets. Promotions/ Spearheaded by: This committee would be Marketing Mr. Jeffrey Salvino III responsible for promoting Committee 12 HUMSS-B 27 Aqua-lusugan and its activities Group 1 Member to the wider community and stakeholders. They would Committee Members: Ms. Francenne Villaruz 12 HUMSS-B Group 1 Member develop and implement marketing strategies to raise awareness, create promotional materials, coordinate community events, and Ms. Angel Mongado engage in outreach efforts to 12 HUMSS-B generate support and interest Group 1 Member in the project. Spearheaded by: This committee would oversee Mr. Rabb Gavin de Castro 12 HUMSS-B Group 1 Member the day-to-day operations of the communal aquaponics farm, including planting, harvesting, and maintaining Committee Members: the farm. They would be Farming Mr. Jeffrey Salvino III responsible for ensuring that Committee 12 HUMSS-B the farm is running efficiently Group 1 Member and effectively to provide a consistent supply of fresh Department of Agriculture produce. (DA) Basilio’s Aquaponics Farm Spearheaded by: This committee would focus on Community Ms. Ma. Kristina Melquiades engaging and educating the Outreach 12 HUMSS-B local community, Sitio Ibayo, Committee Group 1 Member about the benefits of the aquaponics farm, as well as 28 Committee Members: Ms. Juliana Marie Encinas 12 HUMSS-B Group 1 Member organizing community events, workshops, and educational programs related to sustainable farming practices, food security, and nutrition. Ahon sa Hirap, Inc. Spearheaded by: This committee would oversee Mr. Isaiah Jeul Osia the management of resources 12 HUMSS-B Group 1 Member required for the aquaponics farm, including water, fish, and other supplies. They would Resource Committee Members: develop and implement Management Mr. Rabb de Castro strategies for efficient resource Committee 12 HUMSS-B utilization, monitor resource Group 1 Member levels, and coordinate with suppliers and vendors to Basilio’s Aquaponics Farm ensure a steady supply of necessary resources for the Bureau of Fisheries and farm. Aquatic Resources Spearheaded by: Creatives Committee This committee would be Ms. Angel Mongado responsible for developing and 12 HUMSS-B implementing creative content Group 1 Member to support the marketing and promotional efforts of Aqua- Committee Members: Ms. Sophia Alene Abdon 12 HUMSS-B Group 1 Team Leader 29 lusugan. They would be responsible for creating visual assets, such as graphics, photographs, videos, and other multimedia materials, to effectively communicate the project's messaging and engage with the community. VIII. Conclusion We at Aqua-lusugan believe that the establishment of an aquaponics farm as part of a sustainable development project in Sitio Ibayo holds immense promise in addressing the community's challenges related to poor living conditions and food insecurity. By harnessing the power of aquaponics, this project will not only provide a sustainable source of fresh produce for the community but also create opportunities for economic empowerment and education on sustainable farming practices. The project's holistic approach, combining environmental, social, and economic aspects, will contribute to the overall well-being of the community, improving their quality of life and addressing food and nutrition needs in a sustainable manner. While it may take time to establish and optimize the aquaponics system, we eagerly anticipate the participation of community members, farmers, and professionals to jointly embark on this sustainable farming process. Collaborating with fellow residents in this endeavor will foster productivity and strengthen community solidarity. This project exemplifies the power of community-driven sustainable development, aiming to positively impact the lives of Sitio Ibayo residents by addressing food scarcity and malnutrition through innovative and environmentally friendly means. 30 IX. References ACS Distance Learning. The History of Aquaponics. Retrieved from: https://www.acsedu.co.uk/info/agriculture/sustainable-agriculture/the-history-ofaquaponics.aspx Ako, Xiccato, & Rauschenbach. (2022). Aquaponics - an overview. ScienceDirect Topics. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91001-9.00012-8 Antonio, M. H. T. (2019). Bridging the gap: a critical analysis on the delayed development of Sitio Ibayo as a rural area within an urban setting (Doctoral dissertation). Tajer, A. (2021). What Are the Benefits of Aquaponics?. Retrieved from: https://www.greenwaybiotech.com/blogs/gardening-articles/what-are-thebenefits-of-aquaponics Woods. (2019). How to Grow With Aquaponics in 5 Simple Steps. Eartheasy Guides & Articles. Retrieved April 17, 2023, from https://learn.eartheasy.com/articles/howto-grow-with-aquaponics-in-5-simple-steps/ 31