By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the warm sun of Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, local farmers rolled up their sleeves to learn new techniques in compost production, a key step toward sustainable farming. From March 2 to 6, 2026, the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) conducted a re-training program for beneficiaries of the Composting Facility for Biodegradable Waste (CFBW).
The training, led by the Compost Production Implementation Team (CPIT) of Region IV-B, aimed to deepen farmers’ knowledge on producing high-quality compost from biodegradable materials. Participants learned proper methods to turn organic waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer, which can improve soil health and boost crop yields.
Collaboration with the Local Government Unit and the Municipal Agricultural Office of Sablayan helped ensure the program’s success. Farmers practiced hands-on techniques and gained practical insights to apply directly on their farms. The initiative empowers them to produce their own organic fertilizer, reducing dependence on commercial inputs and lowering production costs.
DA-BSWM emphasized that this program is part of a broader effort to promote productive, cost-effective, and sustainable agriculture across communities. By equipping farmers with the right skills, the agency hopes to strengthen local food security, enhance farm productivity, and encourage environmentally friendly practices.
Farmers expressed optimism that the knowledge gained from the re-training will help them improve harvests while caring for the environment. “Producing our own compost means we can farm smarter, save money, and support our community’s sustainability,” said one participant.
With programs like this, DA-BSWM continues to reinforce the government’s goal of a Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas, where farmers are equipped, productive, and empowered to contribute to a thriving local economy.
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