BONTOC, Mountain Province (PIA) – The provincial government through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG) continues to promote organic agriculture to the farmers as it conducted the 2nd Provincial Organic Agriculture Congress on Wednesday, Aug. 27.
With the theme, “Kabuhayang OA, Kinabikasang OK: Halina at Kumita sa Organikong Agrikultura”, the congress served as a venue where new technology and updates on organic agriculture were presented, and organic farmers showcased their products.
Vice Governor Jose O. Dominguez pointed out that organic agriculture is more than just a method of farming – it’s a way of life. It’s about securing a sustainable livelihood while protecting the future of children and the province.
“Through organic farming, we ensure food security, promote healthier lifestyles, and create opportunities for enterprise development. Most importantly, we empower our farmers to earn more, grow more, and live better,” he said.
He assured the provincial government’s continuing support to strengthen agricultural services, and providing more opportunities for farmers to thrive.
Department of Agriculture-Cordillera Regional Director Jennilyn M. Dawayan, represented by Dr. Arlene M. Sagayo, noted that organic agriculture in the province continues to gain ground.
Mountain Province, she said, contributes 13 percent of the total organic area in the region and the products of organic farmers are now reaching wider market.
“Let us continue to protect and preserve our natural biodiversity while ensuring the health and welfare of our farmers, our consumers, and our communities,” she said.
The activity also featured presentations on various topics such as the Philippine National Standard Ruminants, Mukusako; Trichoderma Production, Land Evaluation of Heirloom Rice Production in Mountain Province, and Update of MOAPA status.
One highlight of the event was the “Pinaka” Rare and Fresh Salad and Dressing Contest featuring indigenous crops and promoting creativity in using organic produce.
In the Pinaka Rare Contest, first place winners are Pongawi Anaban of Sagada for her Velvet Beans and Arrow Root, and Adore Laoyan of Sagada for her Adlai.
Second placers are Veronica Bayudan with Goose Berry, Marilyn Tipocsa with Sago, and Eurique Eunangen with Loach. All three are from Sabangan.
In third place are Anita Masyong of Bauko with Sago, Peregrina Damitan of Sabangan with Aggey/Adlai, and Beatrez Ennangen of Sabangan with Kumpiyas.
For the Fresh Salad and Dressing Contest, Veronica Bayudan of Sabangan emerged as the champion.
Bayudan expressed her gratitude for the chance to showcase her skills, saying, “Kaya tau nga agaramid, babaen ti mulmula tayo” (We can make our food through our own plants).
The activity not only celebrated the diversity of organic products in the province but also strengthened the advocacy for healthier lifestyles, sustainable farming, and economic opportunities for local farmers. **JDP/CKI – PIA-CAR, Mountain Province
