In partnership with the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office MIMAROPA , the Agricultural Training Institute in MIMAROPA conducted a Training of Trainers (TOT) on Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) for Organic Implementers and Identified PGS Organizations at Olive Crib Bar and Restaurant, Port Barton, San Vicente, Palawan on July 15–26, 2024.
The 10-day TOT included discussions on the establishment and operations of PGS according to the newly approved Philippine National Standard (PNS) relevant to organic agriculture (OA) standards and corresponding technical regulations, in preparation for the application for certification and accreditation of the participants’ PGS Group.
During the first week of the training, the participants attended lectures on the PNS for organic crops, organic poultry, organic milled rice, organic small and large ruminants, and the national list of permitted substances. The discussions were followed by a workshop on internal standards , where the participants e worked on two drafts in accordance with the provisions of the PNS.
The second week of the training consisted of discussions on the certification and accreditation process of PGS groups, peer review, and certification protocols, facilitated by Ms. Jezell dT. Dela Cruz, Information Officer III of Mindoro State University. The session was followed by the finalization of the Organic Management Plan, farm layout, and farm map.
As the highlight of the TOT, a mock inspection and peer review were conducted on the PAMANA New Agutaya and PAMANA Sto. Niño, during which the participants generated findings and completed e with the Correction and Corrective Action Plan form.
A total of 26 participants, consisting of 21 farmers and five Agricultural Extension Workers joined the said training.
