QCU Celebrates Global Recognition as “Joy is a Farm” Named Finalist in AIPH World Green City Awards 2026
Quezon City University (QCU) proudly celebrates a significant milestone in sustainable urban development as “Joy is a Farm” has been named a finalist in the Living Green for Urban Agriculture & Food Systems category of the prestigious International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) World Green City Awards 2026.
Organized by the International Association of Horticultural Producers, the AIPH World Green City Awards is the world’s only global awards program dedicated to recognizing cities that place plants and nature at the core of urban planning and development.
Held biennially, the awards celebrate innovative, nature-based solutions that address critical urban challenges such as climate change, food security, biodiversity loss, and public health.
For the 2026 cycle, cities from around the world submitted entries across seven categories, including urban agriculture, climate resilience, biodiversity, and social cohesion. Each category selects three finalists, with one ultimately declared the category winner, and one grand winner chosen from among them.
The Living Green for Urban Agriculture & Food Systems category recognizes initiatives that strengthen local food production, improve food security, and promote sustainable agricultural practices within urban environments. These initiatives demonstrate how cities can integrate food systems into urban planning while enhancing community resilience and environmental sustainability.
“Joy is a Farm,” a flagship initiative of QCU aligned with the 14-point agenda of Mayor Josefina Belmonte, exemplifies the vision of transforming urban spaces into productive landscapes that support local food systems, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.
As an academic institution deeply rooted in service and innovation, QCU continues to champion programs and partnerships that align with global sustainability goals. The recognition of “Joy is a Farm” reflects not only the achievements of the QCU and Quezon City Government but also the broader academic and community ecosystem that supports inclusive, green development initiatives.
QCU remains committed to advancing research, education, and community engagement that contribute to building greener, more resilient cities—both locally and globally.
Finalists of the AIPH World Green City Awards 2026 will be honored at a global awards ceremony later this year, where category winners and the Grand Winner will be announced.
As the world turns its attention to innovative urban solutions, QCU stands proud in supporting initiatives like “Joy is a Farm,” which demonstrate the transformative power of sustainability in shaping the cities of tomorrow.
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