Caloocan City is taking a progressive step toward sustainable urban development by proposing a collaboration with Rizal Technological University (RTU) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to establish Solar-Powered Mushroom Modular Houses in selected public open spaces.

During the committee hearing, held on February 9, 2026 and led by Hon. Councilor Leah M. Bacolod, a resolution was presented, outlining a plan to transform underutilized parks into innovative, off-grid urban farming hubs. The initiative highlights a multi-sector partnership that integrates research, science, and local governance in advancing green technologies.

Representing RTU were the Assoc. Prof. John Eric O. Estrellado, RDIO Director;  Instr. Kriznald John O. Azucena, CAS Faculty Member & MBRDU Researcher; and Ms. Arvie Valez, RDIO Staff. 

Through the RTU Mushroom and Biotechnology Research and Development Unit (MBRDU), led by Asst. Prof. Patrocinio O. Macalinao, RTU aims to contribute technical expertise, research support, and capacity-building mechanisms to ensure the project’s sustainability and scalability. The proposed modular units will be powered by solar energy and equipped with automated climate control systems—critical for mushroom cultivation in the Philippines’ tropical environment. By operating entirely off-grid, the project aligns with DOST’s thrust for renewable energy innovation and sustainable technology adoption at the local government level.

The committee concluded the hearing with the resolution set to be calendared for further deliberation in the next regular session.

During the committee hearing, held on February 9, 2026 and led by Hon. Councilor Leah M. Bacolod, a resolution was presented, outlining a plan to transform underutilized parks into innovative, off-grid urban farming hubs. The initiative highlights a multi-sector partnership that integrates research, science, and local governance in advancing green technologies.

Representing RTU were the Assoc. Prof. John Eric O. Estrellado, RDIO Director;  Instr. Kriznald John O. Azucena, CAS Faculty Member & MBRDU Researcher; and Ms. Arvie Valez, RDIO Staff. 

Through the RTU Mushroom and Biotechnology Research and Development Unit (MBRDU), led by Asst. Prof. Patrocinio O. Macalinao, RTU aims to contribute technical expertise, research support, and capacity-building mechanisms to ensure the project’s sustainability and scalability. The proposed modular units will be powered by solar energy and equipped with automated climate control systems—critical for mushroom cultivation in the Philippines’ tropical environment. By operating entirely off-grid, the project aligns with DOST’s thrust for renewable energy innovation and sustainable technology adoption at the local government level.

The committee concluded the hearing with the resolution set to be calendared for further deliberation in the next regular session.