Rationale

MANU FARMS a company started last February 16, 2022 dedicated in aiding institutions, individuals and groups engaged in services that promote education, health, livelihood and preservation of the environment.

Its vision is to implement sustainable programs to improve access to food and for nourishment to the community people and work with them in providing a sustainable source of income and nourishment. Hence, MANU FARMS supports government initiatives that aim to improve the lives of less privileged people, engage in activities that promote health and well-being of individuals in the community. Manu Farms also advocates respect to mother nature and preservation of the environment as well as enriching the lives of the beneficiaries through sustainable livelihood projects, trainings and seminars.

Aquaponics is an integrated multi tropic system comprising elements of recirculating aquaculture and hydroponics. It is believed to have started in Mexico by the Aztecs in 1000 AD, however, modern practices were started in Asia by China, Thailand, and other nearby countries in the 70’s. Only recently has aquaponics been considered as an option for sustainable farming. The water from the fish tanks that is enriched in nutrients, is used for plant growth. The appeal in this approach lies in the fact that it is possible to grow both aquatic animals and plants in an environmentally friendly way in one system. Irrespective of varying water quality requirements in both components, the traditional aquaponics practice has been based on finding a balance between the needs of the plants and fish within a single water process loop. The reason why aquaponics could be a game changer is due to the fact that we are faced with growing food insecurity across the world. Since the world population is growing, this brings inevitable challenges for both nutrition and environment. More and more space is needed to feed the population, while soil fertility, phosphate deposits and oil sources are declining. The development of a sustainable production system is necessary and unavoidable.

Furthermore, an aquaponics system with a weatherproof greenhouse and digital inception would ensure the best quality crops and continuous operation even in the worst weather conditions. Also, this will address the production shortage of crops and fish not only in the region but perhaps other regions too. It will also address the problem of farm to market systems wherein the crops are already in the withering stage by the time they are delivered. By building these aquaponics farms nearer to Central Luzon, we can be assured that crops are delivered faster than those coming from far flung areas in the north.

In addition, the prices of these high value crops may be controlled due to lesser middle men. This project also aims to help the Department of Agriculture in regards to the shortage of vegetables by planting crops that may be deemed needed as the DA may suggest. And with the processing facility that GTGF has, harvested vegetables and fish can reach the intended markets faster. Perhaps the shortages in these commodities may also be addressed as more and moreaquaponics farms are built. It is our desire to help make lives easier for the

Filipino people in any way possible. Hence this MANU FARMS Digital Aquaponics proposal.

Objectives

Overall, this MANU FARMS project is to establish pilot aquaponics farming in Luzon for replication to other areas in the country in the future. Specifically, the project will:

1. Build pilot aquaponics farms in Dolores Quezon, Tayabas Quezon, Bulacan, Arayat and San Fernando Pampanga.

2. Conduct training/ hire local folks for the operation and maintenance of the aquaponics system;

3. Develop a digital aquaponics system in the indicated pilot sites which includes the monitoring software for the system.

4. The facilities will be maintained and operated by Manu Farms, a partner of Four Echo.

5. This sustainable development project is expected to be a game changer in the farming industry and is deemed as the future of farming.

With the inception of digital information, we will be ensured of high-quality crops and fishes that may lessen the crop shortages here in Luzon and other provinces as well. And may pave the way for an economically viable and sustainable aquaponics enterprise.

This project aims to contribute to food security, generate jobs and livelihood opportunities not only for its members but for the community as well. It may also serve as an agri-tourism site where we can impart to students and other entities the importance of farming, other farming techniques.

Expected Output

The implementation of this project will not only increase the efficiency and sustainable supply of fish and vegetables for the region implied but hopefully for Luzon as well. In addition, the produce being fully organically grown will be at par or perhaps better than imported crops. This will also increase income and provide additional sources of livelihood and employment opportunities in the area.

The projected volume of production per farm/month on a 15 cycles per month or a harvest of every other day would be on a conservative 140k heads of lettuce from Arayat, Pampanga Farms as proposed for this project. While the tilapia would be harvested every 4 months and is computed at 800 heads per tank and a total of 16 tanks for that farm.

Milestone

MANU FARMS in collaboration with Development Bank of the Philippines and, the Local Governments Units (LGU’s) in the Southern Luzon and CALABARZON Region will adopt a holistic and sustainable strategy as regards to the development and implementation of this aquaponics project in order to achieve the following milestone; to wit:

4.1. Weatherproof greenhouse facility that will ensure continued production of high value, fully organic crops even on typhoons and other natural calamities. The greenhouses will have “I” beams as posts and metal tubes that will stand even in the worst weather conditions. metal plates clipped on the sides would easily be dropped to protect the crops from strong wind

4.2. Embedding of digital components such as sensors for the quality of water, solar panels for continued operation even off-grid and other modern technology to be at par or even better than other countries.

4.3. Establishment of a fully digitalized commercial Aquaponics farm in the country.

4.4.Establishing a faster farm to market system with the existing capabilities of GTGF Inc. facilities.

4.5.Income generation, livelihood and Enterprise Development among the program beneficiaries and other members of the community through training programs and offering of aqua starter kits for their backyard farming facilities.

4.6.Regular quarterly and annual monitoring and Evaluation will be conducted to assess the progress of activities and to make the project more dynamic, transparent and relevant to the needs and aspirations of the targets.

4.7.MANU FARMS is also planning to partner with other LGUs, especially in Metro Manila to be able to build farms in the city so that these vegetables and fish may be made available to the poor families in their areas.

Innovative Aquaponics Farm Business Showcase

We are a digital aquaponics and agri-tourism farm business dedicated to helping entrepreneurs showcase this sustainable and innovative business model. Our mission is to promote eco-friendly practices and support local communities.

Sustainable Aquaponics Farming Solutions

Supporting Entrepreneurs in Agriculture

Our digital aquaponics and agri-tourism farm business is committed to promoting sustainable farming practices and supporting entrepreneurs in the agriculture industry. Join us in creating a greener future for all.

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to sustainably revolutionize agriculture through innovative aquaponic systems. We aim to educate and inspire visitors about sustainable farming practices while providing fresh, organic produce and fish. By integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional farming methods, we strive to create a harmonious balance between nature and agriculture, promoting environmental stewardship and community engagement.

VISION STATEMENT

Our Vision is to become a leading model of sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism, renowned for our commitment to innovation, education, and environmental conservation. We envision a future where our farm serves as a beacon of sustainability, influencing global agricultural practices and inspiring communities to adopt eco-friendly and self-sufficient farming techniques. Through our efforts, we aim to contribute to a healthier planet and a more sustainable food system for generations to come.

Partners

Explore our unique aquaponics and agri-tourism projects for sustainable growth.

Financial Institution

We are Tied Up with Semi Government Banks

Lalx Golden Key

Construction Company