PHILIPPINES ORGANIC AGRICULTURE LAW FINALLY APPROVED 
By Emmanuel Drewery
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The RA 10068, signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo earlier this month, stipulates that it is a state policy to promote, propagate, and further develop the practice of organic farming in the Philippines. |
After many years of lobbying and campaigning,
Republic Act 100681 otherwise known as "Organic Agriculture Act" was
finally signed and approved. Preda is one of the lead organizations
under the "One Organic Movement" that pushed for the passage of the
law and the lead organization in promoting organic farming methods
in Zambales. Preda agriculturists continue its good work in advocacy
and education of lowland farmers and indigenous people on the
benefits of natural farming.
Preda was also the first to initiate a national organic mango
conference that convened mango growers, farmers, and mango dealers
in the country to encourage and promote organic mango production in
the country. With the growing demand here and abroad, there are big
benefits awaiting those who will go organic. With the new organic
law, we expect more opportunities and research to help advance
organic initiatives in the country.
Preda also works in partnership with RMTU(Ramon Magsaysay
Technological University) research team in trying to produce an
alternative mango flower inducer made from organic compound to boost
mango production and harvests. At the moment, most farmers are
relying on chemical inducers like potassium nitrate that can bring
ill effects to farmers' health and is not good to the soil and
environment. Once research is completed, it will be considered
another breakthrough for organic mango farming and production.
