Undergraduate thesis.

Urbanization in rapidly growing cities like Taguig, Philippines, presents both opportunities and challenges in balancing economic growth with sustainability. One promising approach to address these issues is hydroponic farming, a method of growing plants without soil, using nutrient- enriched water in controlled environments. This study explores the potential of hydroponic farming not only as a sustainable food production system but also as a basis for urban farming tourism development in Taguig City. Specifically, the research investigates how hydroponic farming can enhance urban tourism, engage local communities, and contribute to environmental sustainability. Using a descriptive qualitative design, the study employed purposive sampling to select four hydroponic farm representatives in Taguig City. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis with the help of NVivo software. Findings reveal that hydroponic farms offer unique experiential learning opportunities for visitors, combining education, leisure, and environmental awareness. Stakeholders noted increased public interest in urban farming tourism, with potential benefits for local livelihoods, environmental stewardship, and sustainable urban development. However, challenges such as limited awareness, high initial costs, and lack of institutional support remain significant barriers. This study concludes that integrating hydroponic farming into Taguig City{92}s tourism sector can create new economic opportunities, promote sustainability, and serve as a model for urban farming tourism in other metropolitan areas.