Siargao Island, Philippines Launches Hydroponics Training Program to Empower Tourism Workers with Sustainable Agriculture Skills

Published on December 26, 2025

A significant shift is taking place on Siargao Island, where a group of 13 tourism workers from various municipalities recently completed a groundbreaking 10-day hydroponics training programme. This initiative is a significant step towards assisting the island’s workers by providing them with long-term skills that will allow them to thrive in Siargao’s burgeoning tourism and agri-food industries. With tourism as a key pillar of the island’s economy, this training not only meets workers’ immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term economic empowerment.

Government’s Strategic Push for Long-term Economic Empowerment

The programme marks a new direction for the Philippine government, focusing on providing workers with skills that will stand the test of time, especially as the island continues to develop its tourism and agricultural industries. The training is part of a broader government strategy to go beyond temporary relief and create long-term economic opportunities. By pairing immediate financial assistance with skill-building initiatives, the government is paving the way for a sustainable future for workers.

The hydroponics programme is a result of a joint initiative between several government agencies, including the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Siargao Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (STIPC). This convergence effort aligns with the 2025 Strategic Compliance Plan (SCP) for the priority sectors in Surigao del Norte, demonstrating a commitment to improving livelihoods in the region.

A Holistic Approach to Empowerment

This initiative illustrates a shift toward a more comprehensive approach to worker support. Rather than focusing solely on short-term relief, the government has adopted a strategy that combines immediate assistance with long-term skill development. The workers in Siargao now have access to hydroponics techniques, a skill that enables them to cultivate crops using water-based systems, which are particularly suitable for small spaces and require fewer resources than traditional farming methods.

The programme’s success lies in its integrated approach, ensuring that workers do not simply survive economic challenges but are empowered with sustainable livelihoods that can weather market fluctuations and the seasonal nature of tourism. The combination of immediate relief through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) programme and the technical training from TESDA ensures that participants receive both financial support and the knowledge needed to build a secure future.

Training Focuses on Hydroponics for Sustainable Agriculture

The participants of the programme were trained in crop production techniques that rely on hydroponics—a method of growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water solutions. This approach has proven to be environmentally efficient, offering an alternative to traditional farming methods that require large areas of land. For Siargao, with its limited land space and focus on sustainable tourism, hydroponics presents a unique opportunity to provide year-round vegetable production.

The training, offered by TESDA, was designed to provide participants with nationally recognized competencies. This certification will allow them to use their newly acquired skills not only for personal gain but also to contribute to the island’s growing ecotourism initiatives. As Siargao becomes increasingly popular with international visitors, sustainable agriculture becomes a critical component of the island’s tourism offerings.

A Step Towards Securing a Sustainable Future

For the workers involved in the programme, the training has been a game-changer. Many of them rely on seasonal tourism for their livelihood, and the economic instability tied to the tourism cycle can be challenging. With hydroponics, however, they now have the ability to grow high-quality vegetables in small spaces, ensuring that they can be productive year-round. This new opportunity allows them to diversify their income sources and secure a more stable future, reducing dependence on the fluctuating tourism market.

By focusing on ecotourism, Siargao’s residents are not only benefiting from the tourism boom but are also contributing to its sustainability. Local ecotourism initiatives now have access to locally grown produce, which supports both the environment and the community. This collaboration between sustainable farming and tourism helps create a circular economy that supports local businesses while also attracting tourists who are interested in eco-friendly travel options.

Financial Support Complements Skills Development

As part of the programme, each participant received a TUPAD allowance of P4,350 upon completion of the training. This financial support is essential for workers who may be facing immediate financial difficulties and allows them to focus on building the skills necessary for long-term success. By combining immediate relief with the opportunity to develop sustainable skills, the government is providing a comprehensive support system that meets both short-term and long-term needs.

The Future of Siargao’s Tourism and Agri-Tourism Industries

Siargao Island’s tourism industry is continuing to grow, attracting more visitors each year due to its stunning natural beauty and unique ecotourism offerings. As the island develops, the demand for sustainable practices in both tourism and agriculture will increase. This hydroponics training is just one example of how the government is preparing workers for the future, ensuring that they can meet the needs of a rapidly changing economy.

The integration of agri-tourism and eco-tourism on Siargao Island is a model for other regions in the Philippines and around the world. By training workers in sustainable farming practices like hydroponics, Siargao is laying the groundwork for a tourism model that is not only economically viable but also environmentally responsible. This initiative shows how collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and the private sector can create lasting, positive impacts on both the local economy and the environment.

A Shift Toward Empowerment and Sustainability

The hydroponics training programme on Siargao Island represents a step forward for tourism workers seeking long-term economic empowerment. By providing workers with sustainable farming skills, the government ensures that they have the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing economy. With the growing demand for sustainable practices in tourism and agriculture, Siargao is positioning itself as a leader in ecotourism and sustainable livelihoods, promising a bright future for its workers and citizens.