Ms. Rebecca R. Atega, Chief, Field Operations Division of DA-RFO 13 presents the overview of OAP thrust and priorities. (photo credits: DA-RFO 13).
HINATUAN, Surigao del Sur – Around 80 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) from different Local Government Units (LGUs) in Caraga attended the Briefing for the newly designated Organic Agriculture Program (OAP) focal persons on March 5-7, 2019 at Casa Isabelle, this municipality. The activity was spearheaded by Ms. Rebecca R. Atega, Chief of the Field Operations Division and at the same time regional OAP focal person of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 13 aimed to orient the focal persons on the thrusts, priorities and implementation of the program throughout the region.
These AEWs will complement in carrying out various projects and interventions designed to broaden the promotion and adoption of organic agricultural practices in the localities. As such they were briefed on the provisions and features of Republic Act 10068 also known as the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 as discussed by Mr. Rodolfo Bautista, Agriculturist II/DA-RFO.
Ms. Cindy Burdeos, Agriculturist I/DA-RFO imparted the guidelines and regulations in the implementation of OAP. She added that due recognition shall also be given to organic implementers and practitioners having significant contributions in the OAP implementation through the Regional Organic Agricultural Achievers Awards and presented therein its mechanics and guidelines. The OAP roadmap and reporting system were also introduced to the focal persons. Discussions on the incentives’ guidelines and status then followed.
Being the lead agency for extension and partner in the program implementation, the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center 13 represented by Ms. Leah I. Napoco, Technical Staff/Alternate Focal Person, took part in the activity by presenting and harmonizing all programs and trainings scheduled for the year. Ms. Napoco also shared the list of accredited learning site for agriculture which showcases applicable agricultural technologies.
To encourage more appreciation on organic farming, the participants were toured at the City Organic Agri-Fishery Center (COAFC) in Bislig City on the second day. The participant also crafted and presented the plans and programs for CY 2020. (with report from LNapoco).