Nagcarlan, Laguna. In line with the celebration of the 10th National Organic Agriculture Month, themed “Kabuhayang OA, Kinabukasang OK: PGS Pinalakas para sa Bagong Pilipinas.” the DA-Agricultural Training Institute Regional Training Center CALABARZON conducted a 3-day Training on Organic Production and Processing of Corn and Soya at Gintong Bukid Farm and Leisure, Nagcarlan, Laguna. The training, held from November 18 to 20, 2024, was organized upon the request of the Samahan ng Organikong Industriya ng Laguna (SOIL) to prepare for their upcoming organic feed mill project. Notably, SOIL is the first accredited organic certifying body in CALABARZON and the fourth in the Philippines under the Participatory Guarantee System.
The training program featured notable resource persons, including Mr. Elmer Enicola, Chief of the Institute of Plant Breeding; Mr. Randolph Candano from the National Crop Protection Center; and Dr. Noel Lumbo from the Institute of Animal Science, all from the University of the Philippines Los Baños.
Members of the SOIL group, namely Ms. Marijane Ison, Mr. Procy Sarate Jr., and Mr. Reden Mark Costales—representing three certified PGS farms—also shared their insights and experiences in cultivating organically grown corn and soybeans.
Participants had the privilege of visiting the Sorosoro Ibaba Development Cooperative and Batangas Hog Raisers and Marketing Inc., both based in Batangas City. These visits provided valuable lessons on their inspiring journey in feed mill operations and management.
Center Director Dr. Rolando V. Maningas expressed his full support for SOIL and shared his optimism for the success of their project. Likewise, Ms. Corazon F. Calabia, OIC-Provincial Agriculturist of Laguna, reaffirmed the province’s commitment to supporting the group’s endeavors.
News by: Ms. Sole Leal
