On January 20, 2025, UPRI representatives Executive Director Mahar Lagmay, IB Chief Jose Abraham Ongkiko, and JPA Franklin Joshua Gali participated in the Ocular Visit for the SDG Urban Farm and Wellness Park at Purok Aguinaldo. Included in the group were UP Diliman Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs (VCCA) Jerwin F. Agpaoa, College of Human Kinetics (CHK) Dean Francis Carlos B. Diaz, CHK Associate Dean Norberto R. Madrigal, and representatives from the UPD OVCCA Jerwin Agpaoa, UP Project Management Office (PMO). In addition, representatives from the biking groups Tiklop Society of the Philippines (TSP), Firefly Brigade and Union Cycliste Intrernationale joined as well for their specialized biking insights. The main purpose of this Ocular Visit was to inspect the area for the project plans and to set the trail for the initial bike and walking pathways.
Image 1: UP Diliman Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Jerwin Agpaoa providing a briefing before the Ocular Visit
The visit began with a briefing by VCCA Jerwin Agpaoa, who outlined the project’s vision for the SDG Urban Farm and Wellness Park. He shared the long-term goals of transforming the area into a space that supports both environmental sustainability and community well-being. The briefing aligned all participants regarding the vision of the project, providing an understanding of how the park would serve as a model for integrating green spaces into urban areas.
Image 2: The fence opening along Purok Aguinaldo beginning the path to the project area
After the briefing, the team formally began the Ocular Visit through one of the fence openings along Purok Aguinaldo. The group encountered many of the locals and observed their existing farming practices. Conversations with the locals arose with topics such as life in the area, agricultural viability, and flood management. These conversations were essential in ensuring that the project would not only serve as a recreational space but also strengthen the local community relationship, providing opportunities for sustainable farming and engagement.
Image 3: The Ocular Visit group coming across one of the local farms
The SDG Urban Farm and Wellness Park aims to provide a space not only for sustainable agriculture but also for promoting physical fitness and well-being. This visit highlighted the potential integration of various facilities such as bike paths, exercise areas, and community gardens, all designed to encourage an active and fit lifestyle. This project aims to create a harmonious blend of urban farming, health-focused spaces, and recreational facilities. This vision is to offer locals, students, and visitors an opportunity to engage in physical activities while supporting a sustainable and healthy environment for all.
Image 4: A group picture after the completion of the Ocular Visit
Prepared by:
Franklin Joshua G. Gali
Junior Project Assistant