The one-day Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Coaching and Mentoring session for the Sta. Cruz Organic Agriculture PGS Group was successfully conducted on March 11, 2025 by the Agricultural Training Institute in MIMAROPA.
The activity aimed to prepare the group for the application process by ensuring their compliance with all required documentation and procedures.
During the activity, participants gained a deeper understanding of the principles, processes, and benefits of PGS accreditation. A key component of the session was the finalization of the group's Manual of Operations and Internal Standards. This document is crucial, as it serves as the foundation for their accreditation application.
Moreover, the participants actively engaged in discussions to ensure that their operational guidelines aligned with the standards set for organic certification. Additionally, Engr. Karen T. Vicente, Agriculturist I/OA Point Person, reminded the participants of the necessary processes and documentary requirements to be fulfilled before submitting their application for accreditation as an organic certifying body.
At the end of the activity, the members of the Sta. Cruz Organic Agriculture PGS Group expressed their appreciation for the guidance provided and their readiness to proceed with the application process.
“Dahil sa aktibidad na ito, mas na-appreciate ko pa ang agrikultura, lalo na ang organic agriculture. Marami akong natutunan at mas napukaw ang aking interes sa PGS. Naniniwala ako na magiging malaking tulong ito hindi lamang sa mga magsasaka kundi pati na rin sa mga consumer dahil ligtas at masustansya ang pagkain. Nagpapasalamat ako sa ATI, sa provincial at municipal agriculture office sa pag-anyaya sa akin sa aktibidad na ito. Napakarami kong natutunan at uuwi akong busog na busog sa kaalaman tungkol sa PGS,” shared Maria Alma P. Permejo, Farmer, Brgy. Matalaba, Sta. Cruz.
A total of 18 extension workers and members of the Sta. Cruz Organic Agriculture PGS Group attended the activity, which was facilitated by the Information Services Section of the Center.
