DA-6 pushes organic farming for healthier food

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Agriculture officials in Western Visayas are promoting organic farming not only as an agricultural alternative but also as a long-term investment in public health, sustainable food production, and environmental protection during the 11th Regional Organic Agriculture Congress in Iloilo City.

The campaign was highlighted during a press conference on May 20, coinciding with the celebration of Farmers and Fisherfolk Month.

Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations Zarlina Cuello said the shift to organic agriculture encourages farmers and consumers to prioritize healthier food systems while reducing dependence on synthetic farm inputs.

“It is about awareness and informed decision-making. Organic farming is an alternative, but it also depends on whether an area is appropriate for organic agriculture,” Cuello said.

She noted that organic agriculture in Panay and Guimaras currently accounts for around 7 percent of the region’s effective agricultural land area.

Despite growing interest in organic products, Cuello admitted that many farmers hesitate to transition because of temporary yield losses during the adjustment period.

“Farmers shifting from synthetic inputs to organic practices usually experience yield gaps ranging from 10 to 30 percent compared to conventional farming,” she said.

According to Cuello, farmers may only begin seeing significant improvements around the fifth year of transition because damaged or nutrient-deficient soils require time to recover naturally.

“In many cases, they are starting from barren or unfertilized soil conditions, so rebuilding soil health takes time,” she added.

Still, agriculture officials stressed that the long-term benefits of organic farming extend beyond crop production.

Farmer Regional Executive Director Engr. Buen Mondejar said organic agriculture promotes healthier food, healthier soil, and healthier communities.

“The bottom line is healthy food, healthy production, and sustainable income,” Mondejar said.

He explained that while synthetic fertilizers may provide immediate results, excessive dependence on chemical-based farming may have long-term effects on soil quality and human health.

“The mindset of many farmers is focused on immediate output, but the long-term effects on soil health and human health must also be considered. After all, health is wealth,” he added.

To support the sector, the Department of Agriculture in Western Visayas continues to conduct training and capability-building activities to educate farmers on eco-friendly farming practices and sustainable production systems.

The DA also assists farmer groups applying for certification through the Participatory Guarantee System, a community-based organic certification process backed by technical assistance from the government.

Under the Organic Agriculture Livelihood Program, accredited PGS groups may receive up to PHP 5 million worth of support, depending on their proposed projects and operational needs.

The DA’s organic agriculture initiatives are aligned with Republic Act No. 10068, or the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010, as amended by Republic Act No. 11511, which strengthened the national program for organic agriculture development.

Cuello said Iloilo and nearby provinces have strong potential for expanding organic agriculture because of existing markets and available agricultural resources.

Officials added that organic farming remains part of the broader agriculture and fisheries sector strategy as the region continues balancing food security, environmental sustainability, and public health.