Mushroom propagation workshop

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Provincial Mushroom Growers Agriculture Cooperative has shared its expertise in mushroom propagation with the Cebu City government to support livelihood initiatives.

A training workshop, organized by the city’s Division for the Welfare of the Urban Poor (DWUP), was recently conducted at the City Agriculture Department (CAD) nursery in the north reclamation area.

Participants included representatives from CAD, DWUP, the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), and the Department of Manpower Development and Placement (DMDP).

According to the city’s Public Information Office (PIO), this hands-on workshop aimed to equip participants with the essential skills and knowledge for successful mushroom cultivation, covering everything from preparation to harvesting techniques.

Agricultural experts, who had also received training from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), guided attendees through each stage of the process, addressing topics such as soil preparation, ideal growing conditions, pest control, and sustainable practices.

The trained City Hall employees are now expected to transfer their newfound knowledge to city residents, beneficiaries of DWUP's livelihood program, various homeowners’ associations, and urban-poor groups.

Additionally, the Cebu Provincial Mushroom Growers Agriculture Cooperative has committed to purchasing the oyster mushrooms produced by the program participants.

Meanwhile, 125 individuals have graduated from TESDA’s Bread and Pastry Production NC II program.

Mayor Raymond Garcia encouraged the program completers to venture into business, citing examples of successful entrepreneurs who did not graduate from formal schooling.

“Some of them never even finished studies or college. They just acquired skills and were able to build an empire. Use it (training learning) to the fullest, to the best of your ability, and contribute to the betterment of our world, our society, and our city,” Garcia said. – /LPM (FREEMAN)