In Barangay Sto. Domingo, Sitio Lusong, just a short drive from Laoag City Hall, a new flower farm has blossomed, bringing both beauty and opportunity to local farmers. The Todomax Flower Farm, which opened its doors in December, marks a turning point for the area's agriculture, offering a fresh take on traditional farming.
From Vegetables to Flowers: A New Agro-Tourism Venture
Originally a vegetable garden, the farm transformed into an agro-tourism site with help from the City Agriculture Office. Leovigildo Sacramento, along with 16 members of the Todomax Farmers Association and the Rural Improvement Club (RIC), now cultivates not only vegetables but a colorful array of ornamental flowers, including celosia, torenia, and sunflowers. The farm also features a "pick and pay" system for in-season produce like watermelon, ampalaya (bitter gourd), and eggplant.
“We started with vegetables, but the City Agriculture Office suggested turning it into a tourist spot,” Sacramento said. The initiative offers farmers an alternative income stream and attracts visitors looking for a scenic, affordable destination closer to home.
Overcoming Typhoon Damage: Resilience in Bloom
Despite challenges from recent typhoons, which damaged some crops, the flower farm has thrived. The ornamental plants are in full bloom just in time for the holiday season, attracting local visitors and tourists alike. Sacramento noted that while some flowers were meant to be ready for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, the delay hasn’t dampened enthusiasm.
City’s Support for Agro-Tourism Growth
City Agriculturist Sheila Marie Opelac expressed optimism for the farm’s potential, envisioning it as a draw for both local and passing travelers. "With agro-tourism, we hope visitors will stay longer, benefiting both the farmers and the local economy," she said.
