The 10th Regional Organic Agriculture Congress (ROAC) convened in Iloilo with the theme “Kabuhayang OA, Kinabukasang OK: PGS Pinalakas para sa Bagong Pilipinas.” The event brought together nearly 100 organic farmers from across Iloilo, Aklan, Capiz, Antique, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental, with the goal of empowering them to build competitive livelihoods and secure a financially stable future in agri-entrepreneurship.
The congress highlighted the achievements of farmers certified under the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS), a quality assurance system endorsed by the Organic Agriculture Program (OAP). The Tubungan Vegetable Producers Association (TVPA) and Negros Island Organic Producers Association (NIOPA) were among the groups certified by the Bureau of Agriculture Fisheries Standards (BAFS), allowing them to label their produce as organic.
“It’s not about the numbers, but how we can strengthen our industry and increase participation in micro-level enterprise,” said Zarlina Cuello, DA Regional Technical Director. “The organic agriculture program is crucial for sustaining development goals in farming and providing healthy food for every Filipino table.”
The congress also recognized ten young scholars who received monthly allowances of P5,000, hands-on farm training, and mentorship from experienced farmers. These scholars, aged 18-35, are part of a broader effort to engage youth in organic agriculture. “This scholarship program is a lifeline for young people who want to make a difference in agriculture,” said scholar Nieva Jane Nares from Iloilo.
Farm partners, who provided guidance and support to the scholars, also received various interventions from the DA-OAP, including a P120,000 grant. Dingle Family Farm School was among the recipients, receiving P3.732 million worth of equipment, such as poultry chickens, a village-type feed mill, an egg incubator, and more.
The event also featured a trade fair where organic products from different provinces in Region VI were showcased. Aklan Province won first prize for the best-decorated booth, followed by Negros Occidental and Guimaras. “The trade fair allowed us to show the public the fruits of our labor,” said an exhibitor from Aklan.
ROAC participants toured organic farms in Iloilo, including Agnes Farm, Hugo’s Farm, and Barcelo Mushroom Farm, where they shared best practices in organic farming. The congress was supported by various government agencies, including BAFS, NOAP, NOAB, PLGUs, MAOs, ATI, AEWs, and the Department of Agriculture Western Visayas Organic Agriculture Program.
This year’s ROAC underscored the importance of organic agriculture in the region’s future, providing farmers with the tools, support, and recognition they need to succeed in a sustainable farming industry. (Photos by DA RAFIS 6)
