Iloilo city: Organic agriculture stakeholders gathered in Iloilo City for the commencement of the 11th regional congress focused on promoting organic farming practices. The event highlights the role of organic agriculture in enhancing the resilience of agri-food systems and supporting rural communities, particularly smallholder farmers.

According to Philippines News Agency, Agriculture Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulation, Zarlina Cuello, emphasized the significance of organic agriculture as a platform to promote environmental stewardship and advance food and nutrition security in the region and across the country. Cuello noted that organic agriculture plays a crucial role in the environmental and social governance framework, contributing to the health of the population and the economic stability of Western Visayas.

Currently, organic agriculture constitutes 7 percent of the total effective agricultural area in Western Visayas, surpassing the 5 percent minimum required by law. Under the National Organic Agriculture Program, support is provided to farmers through training, registration with the participatory guarantee system, and the organic agriculture livelihood program. Farmers are encouraged to innovate and assess the suitability of their areas for organic agriculture.

Western Visayas Regional Agri-Fishery Council head, Buen Mondejar, called on the Department of Agriculture to conduct comparative studies on different agricultural technologies and their benefits. He stressed the importance of balancing food security and sufficiency in the region, noting that Western Visayas is self-sufficient in rice, allowing for the practice of organic farming.

The congress features an exhibit of organic products at the Casa Real Iloilo, with the conference set to continue until May 22.