To strengthen the adoption of organic agriculture practices, DA-ATI-RTC-CAR in collaboration with the National Organic Agriculture Program (NOAP) conducted a Training on Organic Agriculture (OA) Standards, Laws, and Regulations on February 3-7, 2025, in Tabuk City, Kalinga. The training gathered Sangguniang Bayan Members (SBM) in Agriculture, along with Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from participating municipalities in Apayao, Ifugao, and Kalinga.
Mr. Edwin C. Dicksen, the Organic Agriculture Focal Person of the Center, provided a comprehensive discussion on the organic agriculture technologies and standards. He highlighted the role of the LGU personnel – the SBM and AEWs in promoting organic agriculture practices in their respective localities. He also emphasized that their initiatives and support can encourage farmer organizations to participate in the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Certification and Accreditation, ensuring that their organic produce complies with established organic standards.
Ms. Alexandrea D. Suñga, Development Officer III of NOAP, discussed the government's role in ensuring food security. She outlined the twelve (12) point strategies of NOAP, emphasizing their importance in helping LGUs effectively disseminate information in their localities.
Mr. Eugene Lim-ang, SB Member of Mayoyao, Ifugao, expressed their commitment to strengthening organic agriculture in their locality with plans to establish an organization dedicated solely to organic agriculture. Also, Mr. Alain Boclongan, the Organic Agriculture Focal Person of Tabuk City, Kalinga highlighted that the training reinforced the significance of organic farming and inspired them to take further action in their community.
The training served as a vital platform for strengthening the commitment of LGUs and agricultural stakeholders to organic agriculture and drive sustainable agricultural practices in their respective localities.//Glory Anongos and Aldrin Sagao, Technical Support Staff, CDMS
