Western Visayas Hosts 11th Regional Organic Agriculture Congress to Promote Sustainable Farming
Health, sustainability at Organic Agri Congress in W. Visayas showcased

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The 11th Regional Organic Agriculture Congress (ROAC) in Iloilo City, Philippines, aims to promote organic farming as a sustainable investment in public health and environmental safety. Running from May 20 to May 22, the congress gathers farmers and practitioners to share best practices, address challenges, and showcase organic products while emphasizing the long-term benefits of organic agriculture.
- 01The congress features discussions on transitioning from synthetic fertilizers to organic farming, with a focus on protecting soil health and public health.
- 02Organic agriculture currently utilizes about 7% of the agricultural land in Panay and Guimaras, Philippines.
- 03Farmers may face yield gaps of 10% to 30% during the transition to organic practices, with significant improvements expected after five years.
- 04The Department of Agriculture offers financial support of up to P5 million under the Organic Agriculture Livelihood Program for certified farmer groups.
- 05Nine regional organic associations participated in the trade fair, showcasing a variety of chemical-free products to the public.
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The 11th Regional Organic Agriculture Congress (ROAC) commenced on May 20 in Iloilo City, Philippines, coinciding with Farmers and Fisherfolks Month. The event, organized by the Department of Agriculture (DA) Western Visayas, aims to promote organic farming as a sustainable investment in public health and environmental safety. Running until May 22, the congress gathers farmers, fisherfolk, and organic agriculture practitioners to discuss best practices, address local challenges, and introduce innovative techniques such as organic animal feed production and the "trash to cash" concept.
DA Regional Executive Director Buen Mondejar highlighted the importance of shifting from synthetic fertilizers to organic methods, warning of the long-term health risks associated with chemical-based farming. Currently, organic agriculture accounts for approximately 7% of the agricultural land in Panay and Guimaras. However, farmers transitioning to organic practices may experience yield gaps of 10% to 30% initially, with significant improvements expected after five years. To support this transition, the DA provides financial assistance through the Organic Agriculture Livelihood Program, offering up to P5 million to certified farmer groups. The congress also features a trade fair showcasing a variety of locally produced, chemical-free products, reinforcing the region's potential as a sustainable agriculture hub.
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The congress aims to enhance the local agricultural sector by promoting organic farming, which can lead to healthier food systems and improved public health.
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