By Kenneth Marcos 
ILOILO CITY – Under the watchful eye of agriculture experts, the Orchard Valley, Inc. farm in Iloilo City opened its gates for a thorough inspection this September. For three days, from September 24 to 26, 2025, a team of evaluators from the National Private Agriculture and Fisheries-Extension Service Providers (PAF-ESP) Council visited the site to conduct its 4th performance audit.
The evaluation team included representatives from Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC). Their mission: to ensure Orchard Valley remains a reliable and compliant partner in delivering quality extension services to farmers and agri-entrepreneurs.
Why the Audit Matters
Extension service providers like Orchard Valley play a crucial role in rural development. They help train farmers, promote modern and sustainable practices, and provide support for agribusiness. Through audits like this, the government ensures these organizations remain effective, transparent, and accountable.
“Extension work is not just about giving lectures or distributing brochures. It’s about building the capacity of our farmers to improve their lives and livelihoods,” said one of the evaluators.
The audit focused on four key areas:
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Extension service delivery – assessing how Orchard Valley teaches and supports farmers
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Capacity building – checking the quality of training programs
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Partnerships – reviewing collaborations with other groups or agencies
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Financial management – ensuring proper and transparent use of resources
Strengthening Public-Private Support for Farmers
Orchard Valley, Inc. is known for organic farming and has long been a partner in agricultural development in the region. By undergoing this performance audit, the farm shows its commitment to maintaining high standards and supporting national goals in food security and sustainable agriculture.
The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), which serves as the National Secretariat for the PAF-ESP, also took part in the process. ATI ensures that all audits are fair, transparent, and aligned with the Department of Agriculture’s extension strategy.
What’s Next?
After the audit, the findings will be used to guide Orchard Valley in further improving its programs and services. If needed, the PAF-ESP Council may recommend actions to help the farm strengthen weak areas and boost performance.
For farmers and communities that rely on extension support, audits like these are a sign that the government continues to monitor and improve services for the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
Through strong public-private partnerships, the vision of a productive, sustainable, and empowered farming sector moves one step closer to reality.
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