Negros Occ. guv disappointed as Terra Madre sales fall short

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By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed disappointment over the minimal earnings received by the province’s organic farmers from the recently concluded Terra Madre Asia Pacific 2025, despite substantial financial and logistical support from the provincial government.

Lacson told reporters on Wednesday that the provincial government’s assessment was based on verified sales reports showing that of the PHP 2.8 million in total earnings recorded during the province’s Organic Festival, only PHP 135,000 — or 6.5 percent — came from Terra Madre.

He said most of the Terra Madre purchases were made only on the fifth and final day of the event.

According to Lacson, Terra Madre spent PHP 133,000 on organic products on the last day after repeated reminders from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist encouraging the group to support local farmers.

“That is precisely why we placed them together — we wanted our farmers to benefit. But it did not happen,” Lacson said.

Daily sales attributed to Terra Madre were minimal: PHP 10,000 on Day 1; PHP 13,000 on Day 2; PHP 14,000 on Day 3; and PHP 14,000 on Day 4, before the jump to PHP 135,000 on Day 5.

“Why was it not happening on a daily basis? It is disappointing because we were hoping our organic farmers would really benefit from the hosting of Terra Madre,” he added.

Lacson said he had no information on where Terra Madre sourced most of its raw materials during the event.

“My focus was on our organic farmers,” he noted.

The provincial government allocated PHP 6 million to support the event, while Bacolod City also extended assistance, although Lacson said he did not have the exact amount.

Terra Madre is a global movement under Slow Food International that promotes sustainable, community-based, and environmentally conscious food production.

The Asia-Pacific edition brings together farmers, food advocates, NGOs, chefs, and delegates from multiple countries to celebrate local food cultures and address challenges in sustainable agriculture.

This year’s event was co-hosted by Bacolod City — the main organizer — and the Province of Negros Occidental, known as the “Organic Agriculture Capital of the Philippines” for its long-standing Organic Agriculture Festival and strong community of organic producers.

Negros Occidental has hosted the Negros Island Organic Farmers Festival for nearly two decades, drawing thousands of visitors annually and supporting farmers transitioning to chemical-free farming.

The province’s organic sector is vital to food security and rural livelihoods, making events like Terra Madre key opportunities for market access and industry exposure.

The hosting of Terra Madre Asia Pacific rotates every two years, with the next event scheduled for 2027.