By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside a small farm in Polangui, Albay, a group of hardworking farmers gathered around agriculture experts, listening closely and asking questions about a dream they all share — to get certified as organic producers.
From September 22 to 26, 2025, the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS) conducted a pre-inspection activity to support core farmer-members of a Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) group. The technical assistance aims to prepare them for the next big step: securing their organic certification.
The pre-inspection was part of the government’s ongoing efforts to promote organic farming across the country. It helped farmers understand what to expect during the actual certification process and assessed how ready they are to meet the national standards for organic agriculture.
PGS is a locally focused, affordable, and inclusive method of certification, ideal for small farmers who cannot afford costly third-party inspections. Under this system, farmers themselves play an active role in maintaining quality and transparency, supported by regular peer reviews and training.
During the five-day activity, the DA-BAFS Compliance Assistance Team worked closely with representatives from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office V (DA-RFO V), the Local Government Unit of Polangui, and members of the Regional Pre-Assessment Team (RPAT). Together, they provided hands-on guidance, site evaluations, and recommendations to help the farmers align with organic standards.
Organic farming avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It promotes environmental sustainability, healthier soil, and safer food production. For many rural farmers, shifting to organic practices also means better market opportunities and improved livelihoods.
“Sa panahon ngayon, mataas ang demand sa organic. Kung makakuha kami ng certification, mas lalaki ang tiwala ng mamimili at mas tataas ang kita namin,” shared one farmer during the activity.
In recent years, the DA has strengthened its support for Organic Agriculture through programs like the PGS, which is recognized under Republic Act No. 11511. The law institutionalizes PGS as an alternative certification method that empowers local farmer groups while still maintaining food safety and quality.
The initiative in Albay reflects a growing movement among Filipino farmers who want to shift to safer, healthier, and more sustainable farming. However, many still face challenges in meeting certification requirements due to lack of training, support, or financial capacity. Pre-inspections like this provide the needed bridge to help farmers reach those standards.
The DA encourages more farmer groups to organize and register under the PGS system so they, too, can benefit from organic certification and the growing demand for clean, sustainable food.
By empowering small farmers through training, technical support, and local certification, the government hopes to build a stronger, more inclusive organic agriculture sector across the country.
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