By Kenneth Marcos 
Farmers, researchers, and agriculture workers gathered early Tuesday in Quezon City, filling the hall with conversations about soil health, safe food, and the future of organic farming. Many arrived carrying notes and samples from their own fields, hopeful that their experiences would help shape better programs for communities nationwide.
The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) launched the first day of its Multi-stakeholder Consultation Workshop on Organic Agriculture Research and Development, Extension Agenda and Programs. The event brings together organic farming practitioners, scientists, local government units, non-government organizations, private sector groups, and members of the academe.
Officials said the goal is to build an updated and realistic research agenda for organic agriculture—one that reflects the true challenges faced by farmers and supports solutions that can be used at the community level. By gathering different sectors in one venue, organizers hope to combine technical knowledge with the lived experiences of growers across the country.
Organic agriculture remains a growing but challenging sector in the Philippines. Farmers often struggle with access to quality organic inputs, updated training, and market opportunities. Climate change has also made farming more unpredictable, increasing the need for research that helps improve soil resilience, pest management, and sustainable production methods.
DA-BAR said the workshop will help ensure that the next set of programs under the National Organic Agriculture Program for Research and Development (NOAP R4D) focuses on current needs, such as technologies that improve yields, reduce costs, and protect the environment. Participants will also review gaps in extension services, including farmer training and support systems.
Local government representatives shared that many communities are eager to shift to safer and more sustainable farming, but they need science-based guidance and consistent government support. NGOs and private groups, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of linking organic farmers to fair and stable markets so they can sustain production.
The consultation will continue in the coming days, with participants expected to present recommendations and draft priority research areas. These inputs will be used to finalize programs that will be implemented in the next years under the DA’s push for a more resilient and climate-smart agriculture sector.
As discussions move forward, organizers encouraged all stakeholders to stay engaged and continue sharing their insights. They stressed that strong cooperation between farmers, scientists, and government agencies is essential to expanding organic agriculture and ensuring communities have access to healthier and more sustainable food options.
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