BAGUIO CITY – In the scenic area of Acapulco, Barangay Lucnab, Baguio City, Margarita D. Joseph stands as a true advocate for sustainable farming and urban gardening. Known for her Fit and Fab Farm, she has become a prominent figure in the community, not only as a farmer but as an educator, leader, and a passionate promoter of food security and environmental sustainability.
Margarita’s journey into farming wasn’t always focused on vegetables and gardens. Initially, she earned her living by raising pigs. However, an ordinance that banned the raising of pigs within Baguio City led her to rethink her business. Instead of abandoning her land, Margarita saw an opportunity to innovate.
The pigpen that once stood in her yard was transformed into what is now the vibrant Fit and Fab Farm, a garden that has become a model of how small spaces can be turned into productive, green havens.
Margarita explains that Fit and Fab Farm isn’t just a farm but a testament to the idea that anyone can grow their own food. This farm not only showcases sustainable farming practices but actively promotes the concept of urban gardening, encouraging Baguio residents to create their own food sources even in limited spaces.
Fit and Fab Farm is also a recognized learning site for agriculture, where people from various walks of life come to learn about sustainable farming techniques, plant care, and how to transform any space into a fruitful garden. Margarita believes that education is key to empowering individuals, and through her farm, she is equipping her neighbors with the knowledge and skills they need to grow food at home.
In addition to managing her own farm, Margarita has held significant leadership roles in her community. From 2019 to 2021, she served as the president of the Barangay Lucnab Agricultural and Fisheries Association (BLAFA) , and she currently holds the same position.
In these roles, she has been instrumental in promoting agriculture within the barangay. “A lot of our members have their own personal gardens,” Margarita says. “But we also maintain a community garden, which serves as a shared space for all of us.”
This community garden has proven to be an invaluable resource for the residents of Barangay Lucnab. Not only does it provide fresh produce for the families, but it is also a central part of the feeding program for local school children.
The garden at the barangay nursery school is another example of how urban gardening can be integrated into everyday life. Maintained by both the pupils and their parents, this garden ensures that healthy food is readily available for the community.
“The produce from the community garden is often used in the feeding program. It helps provide nutritious meals for the children, and it strengthens the bond within the community.”, Margarita shares.
For Margarita, her work is a way of life. It’s about more than just farming; it’s about fostering a culture of self-reliance, community, and environmental stewardship. She is not just a farmer—she is a mentor and a changemaker, proving that sustainable farming practices can thrive even in urban areas. By Alyssa Dawn Alalag
