Panabo City—To strengthen local government efforts in advancing organic agriculture, the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center XI successfully conducted the first batch of OALevelUp: Capability Building for Local Government Units (LGU) on Organic Agriculture on March 10-14, 2025 at ATI-RTC XI.
The training aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of agricultural extension workers and selected farmer leaders from various LGUs across the Davao Region, enabling them to promote sustainable farming practices in their communities. It covered key topics such as the government's role in food security through organic agriculture, LGU responsibilities in implementing the National Organic Agriculture Program (NOAP) under Republic Act 10068, core NOAP programs and initiatives, updates on the Philippine National Standards for organic agriculture, and enterprise plan preparation for agribusiness ventures.
Ms. Alexandrea Dalisay Suñga, Development Management Officer III of DA-NOAP, and Engr. Ariel D. Abastillas, Organic Agriculture Program (OAP) Focal Person from ATI-RTC XI, served as resource persons. Their expertise provided valuable insights into policy implementation, technical standards, and enterprise development in organic agriculture.
Beyond classroom discussions, participants engaged in a field practicum at UmaVerde Farm and Learning Center in Barangay Sampao, Kapalong. Farm owner Joy Evardo led the tour and shared best practices in organic farming. Participants also conducted structured interviews with farm personnel using templated questionnaires, gaining hands-on experience in business planning and its application to farm operations. This exposure provided them with practical strategies to improve productivity and sustainability, aligning their plans with potential OAP funding opportunities.
As part of the training, participants developed enterprise plans aligned with NOAP’s funding requirements. The activity emphasized essential components such as business objectives, market analysis, production strategies, financial projections, and sustainability measures, equipping them with the skills to secure funding for organic agriculture projects.
LGUs play a crucial role in advancing organic agriculture, contributing to food security, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience. By strengthening their knowledge and capacity, this initiative fosters greater LGU engagement and accelerates the growth of organic agriculture in the region.
