Baguio City’s Happy Hollow National High School (HHNHS) has clinched the 2025 AIA Outstanding Healthy Eating Award, besting 15 other schools from across the Asia-Pacific region. The Department of Education (DepEd) lauded HHNHS as a model for promoting food security, sustainability, and healthy lifestyles in the education sector.
The award, which recognizes excellence in healthy living, active lifestyles, and environmental responsibility, cited HHNHS for its flagship program, Project O.R.G.A.N.I.C. (Offering Resources of Growing Agri-product and Nutrition in Community). The school received US$15,000 (about ?840,000) in prize money for the achievement.
Project O.R.G.A.N.I.C.: Students Cultivating Health and Sustainability
Designated as a farm school in 2024, HHNHS trains students in organic agriculture, sustainable food production, and waste reduction. The program has equipped 168 Grade 12 students under the Organic Agriculture Production (OAP) strand to grow mustard greens using eco-friendly farming methods and recycled materials.
Teacher Aries Busacay shared that the initiative aims to help students “live happier and healthier” while fostering community participation. Older students mentor younger peers with support from barangay officials, nutritionists, and parents. Activities include backyard gardening, feeding programs featuring school-grown produce, planting and harvesting workshops, and nutrition seminars. Students also prepare for TESDA NC II certification to expand their job prospects.
DepEd reported that Project O.R.G.A.N.I.C. has helped reduce malnutrition rates based on BMI data, increased student engagement, and built a strong culture of sustainability in the community.
Model for Farm Schools Across the Country
Education Secretary Sonny Angara praised the program as proof of what collaboration between schools, parents, and communities can achieve.
“Patunay itong Project O.R.G.A.N.I.C. na kapag nagtulungan ang paaralan, magulang, at komunidad, kayang buhayin ang tradisyon ng agrikultura at sabay nating mapaunlad ang kalusugan at kinabukasan ng ating mga kabataan,” he said.
The initiative is anchored on Republic Act No. 10618 or the Rural Farm Schools Act, authored by the late Senator Edgardo J. Angara. Under Sec. Angara’s leadership, the number of farm schools has grown to 156 across eight regions, offering agricultural training, technical skills, and entrepreneurship programs.
HHNHS emerged as the top winner among strong entries from Australia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka—solidifying its place as a leader in school-based organic farming and nutrition education.
