Rural communities in this northern agricultural city are crafting a sustainable road map for the “Dap-ayan,” transforming these traditional farmer sheds into a new frontier for eco-tourism.

Annual searches for the Best Dap-ayan ni Mannalon and Arc have evolved significantly since their pandemic-era launch as village leaders take charge of improving these airy, indigenous structures.

City agriculturist Mark Allan Abad told the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday that the project empowers residents to showcase their cultural pride alongside their primary sources of living.

“At first, they were hesitant, but it turned out the competition fostered greater collaboration and strengthened bonds among them,” Abad said while describing the project’s social impact.

This year’s competition mandates a shift toward modernity by requiring the use of bamboo as a primary material and the integration of solar power for renewable energy.

Bamboo cultivation is currently being expanded under the government’s Sustainable Agroforestry Farm Enterprise-Business Model to enhance livelihood opportunities and climate resiliency.

Mayor Mark Christian Chua lauded the community for their unique display of craftsmanship and cultural heritage while personally monitoring entries across various rural villages.

“We want this to be sustainable, so we have been giving them cash assistance to improve their Dap-ayan,” Chua said as he noted the spaces now serve as relaxing study areas.

Each Dap-ayan also functions as an exhibit hall for community achievements and a marketplace for fresh produce, strategically located near local “Gulayan sa Barangay” garden plots.

“We are glad to have a Dap-ayan where we can sell our produce every day,” said Ferdinand Quimoyog, a village councilor from Barangay Camguidan, the city’s winged bean capital.

Cyclists will soon promote these winning entries during the Padyak Dap-ayan Challenge scheduled for May 2.

Participants can choose between a “hard” category covering the top 15 entries or an “easy” category featuring a scenic ride through the top seven structures.

These initiatives anchor the 17th Farmers’ Festival, a three-day tribute to the agricultural workers who drive 80 percent of the city’s local economy.

Batac officials will announce the grand winners of the Dap-ayan search during the festival’s culmination program. (PNA)