DA-10 advances organic agriculture through 1st reg’l sustainable organic food systems conference

 

BALINGASAG, MISAMIS ORIENTAL – To further strengthen the promotion and adoption of organic agriculture in Northern Mindanao, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), through its Organic Agriculture Program, staged the 1st Regional Sustainable Organic Food Systems on November 25 to 27, in this town.

Anchored on the theme “Creating Synergies to Co-Create Regional Organic Agriculture Development (ROAD) in Northern Mindanao,” the conference highlighted key discussions and thematic sessions focused on integrating organic agriculture into the farming practices of its diverse stakeholders.

A major highlight of the event was the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro and the DA-10 Organic Agriculture Program to co-create sustainable organic family farms. The agreement was formalized by DA-10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan and Archbishop Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ, DD, with OIC-RTD for Operations Viralou L. Tuquib, DVM, MPM, and Mark Anthony C. Lagamon, DA-10 Organic Agriculture Focal Person, as witnesses.

In his message, RED Pacamalan emphasized the need for stronger collaboration and measurable outcomes. “[Let us] make this conference a springboard [to] create a bigger impact in organic agriculture. Let’s plan and outline specific interventions that are vital for DA’s support — those that deliver practical impact.”

He further shared that the DA-10 targets to transform 100 hectares in Balingasag into an organic duck farm, reinforcing the region’s direction toward integrated organic systems.

Organic practitioner Roberto E. Jomen III of Vege-To-Go Plant-Based expressed optimism about expanding the reach of organic agriculture. “I am happy that we are bringing organic agriculture to a wider audience, not only farmers. I hope that next time, we can also include doctors, health practitioners, and nutritionists — those who can help promote organic foods to the masses. Instead of synthetic medicines, let’s advocate for alternative lifestyles through quality organic foods,” he said.

The next Regional Sustainable Organic Food Systems Conference is set to take place in 2026, in Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte.

This initiative supports the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in advancing inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agricultural development, ensuring that communities benefit from healthier food systems and improved livelihood opportunities.# (NQA)