By Mariela Angella Oladive
As climate change continues to impact crop production, local farmers in Tubungan are promoting organic farming as a sustainable solution.
This advocacy was highlighted during the 14th Adlaw sang Mangunguma on April 28 at the Municipal Covered Gymnasium as part of the Tubong-Tubong Festival.
With the theme “Pasidungog sa Mangunguma: Organikong Agrikultura, Pasanyugon Ta,” the annual celebration recognized the essential role of farmers in driving the local economy and supporting organic farming practices.
“We need to strengthen organic farming,” Mayor Roquito Tacsagon said in his message.
“This approach not only helps improve our environment but also has a positive effect on our health,” he added.
“Let us work together so we can overcome the challenges we are currently facing,” the mayor said.
He expressed concern about the growing impact of climate change, particularly water scarcity, on agricultural productivity.
Organic agriculture focuses on ecological processes, biodiversity and natural cycles suited to local conditions, rather than relying on synthetic inputs, according to IFOAM.
Municipal Agriculturist Marjorie Tacardon said more than 300 participants attended the event from all 48 barangays.
Attendees included farmers, agricultural workers, association leaders, 4-H Club members and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority scholars.
The event served as a platform for exchanging knowledge on emerging farming technologies, industry challenges and the importance of sustainability.
The local government also launched the Tubong Agrikultura Exhibit and Flower Display.
The exhibit featured a wide variety of homegrown vegetables, fruits and ornamental plants cultivated by local farmers.
