The adoption of Philippine National Standards (PNS) on Honey — Product Standard — Specifications (PNS/BAFS 185:2022) has provided a milestone to the honey industry, which set of guidelines and parameters to interested parties helping distinguish pure honey from adulterated products.One of the key challenges in the honey industry is adulteration of honey by mixing it with sugar cane or corn syrup compromising its quality and misleading the consuming public. The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) conducted a study which used stable carbon isotope ratio analysis to detect such adulteration. The stable carbon isotope ratio analysis is a nuclear-based technique that identifies the unique isotopic “fingerprints” of authentic honey versus the commonly used adulterants such as sugar cane and corn syrup. Authentic honey comes from C3 plants (such as nectar-producing flowers), which have a carbon isotope fingerprint ranging from -33% to -22%. while sugar cane and corn syrups originate from C4 plants, which have a δ¹³C value between -16‰ to -8‰. Through the analysis of these isotope fingerprints, the purity of honey can be determined, protecting both the consumers and producers from fraudulent claims.In collaboration with the DOST-PNRI, Bureau of Animal Industry, Apimondia Regional Commission for Asia, academe and industry representatives, the said technique was officially adopted in PNS/BAFS 185:2022. Further, FEATR, a platform dedicated to showcasing Filipino agriculture and sustainable practices, has featured the importance of honey quality standards and the role of carbon isotope analysis in ensuring authenticity, raising public awareness and appreciation of this endeavor. WIth these mainstreaming efforts, we are confident that we are moving closer to a future where every sweet drop of Philippine honey is pure, traceable, and proudly local.You can watch the full segment here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8lKy6fNiIIIf you want to learn more about this PNS on Honey — Product Standards — Specifications (PNS/BAFS 185:2022) click here: https://bit.ly/4j3yPQV #bafs #directorscorner #pns #honey  Raising the Bar for Philippine Honey with the Philippine National Standards (PNS) on Honey — Product Standard — Specifications (PNS/BAFS 185:2022) March 25, 2025 Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 20, 2025 DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD) and Standards Development Division (SDD) conducted in-person interviews, coordinated with DA-Regional Field Offices in Central Luzon and SOCCSKSARGEN. March 20, 2025 Field Compliance Assessment of Ongoing Efficacy Trials March 19, 2025 Preinspection to Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Core Farmer-Members March 18, 2025 New Employee Oreintation and Reoreintation March 14, 2025 Surviellance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Other Post

To ensure the continued compliance of Organic Participatory Guarantee System of La Trinidad (OPGSLT) with accreditation standards, the DA-BAFS conducted a surveillance audit in La Trinidad on March 18 to 20, 2025. The surveillance includes office-based assessment and witnessing of their conduct of peer review of two farmer-member applicants for organic certification.The DA Regional Field Office, ATI Regional Training Center of Cordillera Administrative Region, and the Local Government Unit of La Trinidad provided technical assistance for the assessment.#OAassessment#OrganicAgriculture#PGSforOA#BAFSonthemove#BAFS  Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 20, 2025 DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD) and Standards Development Division (SDD) conducted in-person interviews, coordinated with DA-Regional Field Offices in Central Luzon and SOCCSKSARGEN. March 20, 2025 Field Compliance Assessment of Ongoing Efficacy Trials March 19, 2025 Preinspection to Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Core Farmer-Members March 18, 2025 New Employee Oreintation and Reoreintation March 14, 2025 Surviellance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Survillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Other Post

From February 17-21, 24-28, and March 17-20, 2025, shrimp hatchery and nursery operators from Zambales, Pampanga, Sarangani, and General Santos City participated in Field Data Gathering (FDG) activities.The DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD) and Standards Development Division (SDD) conducted in-person interviews, coordinated with DA-Regional Field Offices in Central Luzon and SOCCSKSARGEN, as part of the FDG to support amending the Philippine National Standard (PNS) on Code of Good Aquaculture Practices (GAqP) for Shrimp Hatcheries (PNS/BAFS 280:2019).Technical information collected on current aquaculture practices will be used for the technical evaluation and amendment of PNS/BAFS 280:2019.PNS/BAFS 280:2019 provides measures for stakeholders to prevent or reduce hazards in penaeid shrimp hatchery and nursery operations, ensuring food safety and sustainable production. #BAFS #bafsonthemove #Shrimp #GAqP #StandardsResearch DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD) and Standards Development Division (SDD) conducted in-person interviews, coordinated with DA-Regional Field Offices in Central Luzon and SOCCSKSARGEN, March 24, 2025 Field Compliance Assessment of Ongoing Efficacy Trials March 19, 2025 Preinspection to Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Core Farmer-Members March 18, 2025 New Employee Oreintation and Reoreintation March 14, 2025 Surviellance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Survillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector March 5, 2025 Other Post

The DA-BAFS field compliance inspection conducted the FCA on March 5, 2025, to check on the existing compliance of the on-going efficacy trials with the approved EUP. The trial was conducted in a reefer facility in Carmen, Davao del Norte.The test of efficacy is performed to determine the efficiency of the product against Cavendish Banana flower thrips. In the activity, treatments were performed via bud injection. Flower trips were also seen in the dissected sample buds, but the pest is too minute to be captured in photographs.The conduct of efficacy trials using an EUP is a requirement for the registration of Organic Bio-control Agent (OBCA) products. #DABAFS#BAFSonthemove#OAregistration#OAassessment#OrganicAgriculture  Field Compliance Assessment of Ongoing Efficacy Trials March 19, 2025 Preinspection to Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Core Farmer-Members March 18, 2025 New Employee Oreintation and Reoreintation March 14, 2025 Surviellance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Survillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector March 5, 2025 The DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD), in coordination with the DA-Regional Field Office in Ilocos Region and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) March 4, 2025

DA-BAFS Compliance Assistance Team and DA-RFO III Organic Agriculture Program, Provincial Agriculture Office of Bataan, and other Bataan Local Government Units conducted a pre-inspection activity and provided technical support to the PGS core farmer-member last March 4 to 7, 2025.The activity aimed to help the group with the preparation for their application for organic certification. #OAtechnicalassistance#BAFS#BAFSonthemove#PGSforOA  Preinspection to Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) Core Farmer-Members March 18, 2025 New Employee Oreintation and Reoreintation March 14, 2025 Surviellance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Survillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector March 5, 2025 The DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD), in coordination with the DA-Regional Field Office in Ilocos Region and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) March 4, 2025 Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body February 28, 2025 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

The Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (DA-BAFS) facilitated an “Orientation/Reorientation Seminar” for its newly appointed employees on February 28, 2025, at the BAFS Conference Room. The all-day activity had as its primary goal, the delivery to new employees of an intensive study of the operations, advantages, and codes of ethics of the Bureau.The program started with an opening prayer and the national anthem, and welcoming remarks by DA-BAFS OIC-Director Mary Grace R. Mandigma, PFT. The morning session was devoted to familiarizing participants with the history, mission, vision, and organizational structure of the organization as presented by Dr. Gari Pellinor U. Hernandez, Senior Science Research Specialist of the Standards Development Division., Mr. Frederick Crisol, Planning Officer III, then gave a detailed presentation on DA-BAFS’ core functions, thrusts, goals, and major final outputs (MFOs).A good part of the morning was also spent informing the new employees of their benefits. Pag-IBIG (Ms. Nova Kristal P. Pala), GSIS (Mr. Cezar M. Oribello JR & Ms. Ma. Thailasha Mae E. Gamorot), and PhilHealth (Mr. Laurence Kenneth H. Rosales) representatives gave presentations on the updates of their respective programs, interspersed with lively question and answer forums. Certificates of appreciation were accorded to the speakers after each presentation..The afternoon session kicked off with an energizer to get the participants energized and charged, after which Atty. Paul Jerick O. Mallari, Attorney III, Litigation and Adjudication Division, Legal Service, presented the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees”. Ms. Roxanne P. Lizardo, Administrative Officer V, proceeded with a clear rundown of the personnel benefits, policies, and office regulations issued through Office Orders.During the day, participants were actively involved during the question and answer sessions, manifesting their enthusiasm to learn and know their roles in DA-BAFS. The activity ended with a Closing Remarks cum insights sharing from the Organic Agriculture Division Chief, Mark F. Matubang, who is also a participant, following his promotion as OAD Chief.The orientation/reorientation seminar was hosted by Ms. Lhesley Anne Bulanier, Senior Administrative Assistant III.DA-BAFS believes in developing its people with the knowledge and skills to efficiently perform their functions and be of top contribution to the organization’s efforts to promote the safety, quality and global competitiveness of Philippine agricultural and fishery products. ### #BAFS #DirectorsCorner  New Employee Oreintation and Reoreintation March 14, 2025 Surviellance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Survillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector March 5, 2025 The DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD), in coordination with the DA-Regional Field Office in Ilocos Region and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) March 4, 2025 Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body February 28, 2025 Inspection of Core PGS Framers-Memebers February 28, 2025 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

To ensure the continued adherence of Ormoc Organic Agriculture Development Inc. (OOADI) to accreditation requirements, the DA-BAFS Assessment Team undertook a surveillance assessment in Ormoc City from March 3 to 5, 2025. The surveillance assessment comprised an office-based evaluation and an on-site observation of the group’s inspection procedures for two farmer-members applying for organic certification. Technical personnel from the DA Regional Field Office–Eastern Visayas and the Ormoc City Agriculture Department provided technical assistance throughout the activity.#oaassessment#OrganicAgriculture#PGSforOA#BAFSonthemove#DABAFS  Surviellance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Survillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector March 5, 2025 The DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD), in coordination with the DA-Regional Field Office in Ilocos Region and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) March 4, 2025 Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body February 28, 2025 Inspection of Core PGS Framers-Memebers February 28, 2025 The DA-BAFS Compliance Assistance Team, together with the DA-RFO VII and the Provincial Agriculture Office of Bohol February 28, 2025 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

In order to ensure the continued compliance of the People’s Action for Liberative Agricultural Industry, Inc. (PALAI, Inc.) with accreditation requirements, the DA-BAFS Assessment Team conducted a surveillance evaluation on March 4 to March 6, 2025, at Sto. Niño, South Cotabato. The surveillance encompassed an office-based assessment and on-site monitoring observation of the two PALAI-certified farmer members’ group monitoring process.The activity was supported by technical staff working in the DA Regional Field Office–SOCCSKSARGEN, the DA-Agricultural Training Institute RTC-12, and the Provincial and Municipal Agriculture Departments. #OAassessment#OrganicAgriculture#PGSforOA#BAFSonthemove#DABAFS Surveillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 Survillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector March 5, 2025 The DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD), in coordination with the DA-Regional Field Office in Ilocos Region and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) March 4, 2025 Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body February 28, 2025 Inspection of Core PGS Framers-Memebers February 28, 2025 The DA-BAFS Compliance Assistance Team, together with the DA-RFO VII and the Provincial Agriculture Office of Bohol February 28, 2025 The Monitoring Team from the DA-BAFS Organic Agriculture Division and DA-Regional Field Office Region CAR Regulatory Division monitored certified core PGS group farmer-members in Benguet February 27, 2025 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

For its continued adherence to the accreditation requirements, the DA-BAFS Assessment Team conducted a surveillance audit on February 25 to February 27, 2025, at Dasol, Pangasinan.Surveillance involved an office inspection and on-site observation of the monitoring activity of the group on one farmer-member certified under the crop production category.The activity was supported by technical personnel of the DA Regional Field Office–Ilocos Region and DA-Agricultural Training Institute – RTC I. #OAassessment#OrganicAgrilcuture#PGSforOA#BAFSonthemove#DABAFS  Survillance Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body March 13, 2025 APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector March 5, 2025 The DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD), in coordination with the DA-Regional Field Office in Ilocos Region and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) March 4, 2025 Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body February 28, 2025 Inspection of Core PGS Framers-Memebers February 28, 2025 The DA-BAFS Compliance Assistance Team, together with the DA-RFO VII and the Provincial Agriculture Office of Bohol February 28, 2025 The Monitoring Team from the DA-BAFS Organic Agriculture Division and DA-Regional Field Office Region CAR Regulatory Division monitored certified core PGS group farmer-members in Benguet February 27, 2025 Pre-inspection activity of DA-BAFS together with the DA-RFO III Organic Agriculture Program in the province of Pampanga February 27, 2025 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector, February 17-20, 2025 – Virtual SessionMs. Nikki Rose G. Alegre and Mr. Alvier Jade B. Remollo of DA-BAFS participated in the Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector, held virtually on February 17-20, 2025. The training was organized by the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) and hosted by the Thailand Productivity Institute to enhance understanding of big data analytics and its applications in the agrifood sector. It also aimed to promote integrated database use and sustainable practices to improve productivity and resilience in the agrifood industries of APO member countries.The four-day training featured presentations on big data analytics for crop production and food supply chain efficiency, as well as the integration of data and analytics across the supply chain, from production to market. Case studies from selected countries demonstrated the importance of big data in resource monitoring, management, quality assurance, and sustainability. Discussions also emphasized strategies for stakeholder collaboration and ways to maximize big data analytics in the agrifood sector. The training served as a platform for participants to exchange knowledge and experiences while collaboratively identifying key big data analytics needs in the sector.A total of 49 participants from 12 APO member countries attended, including seven representatives from the Philippines—Benguet State University (BSU), Country Vest, Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – MIMAROPA, DOST – Regional Office No. III, and DA-BAFS. #BigData #BAFSonthemove #DABAFS APO Training Course on Big Data Analytics in the Agrifood Sector March 5, 2025 The DA-BAFS Standards Research Division (SRD), in coordination with the DA-Regional Field Office in Ilocos Region and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) March 4, 2025 Assessment of PGS Group for Accreditation as Organic Certifying Body February 28, 2025 Inspection of Core PGS Framers-Memebers February 28, 2025 The DA-BAFS Compliance Assistance Team, together with the DA-RFO VII and the Provincial Agriculture Office of Bohol February 28, 2025 The Monitoring Team from the DA-BAFS Organic Agriculture Division and DA-Regional Field Office Region CAR Regulatory Division monitored certified core PGS group farmer-members in Benguet February 27, 2025 Pre-inspection activity of DA-BAFS together with the DA-RFO III Organic Agriculture Program in the province of Pampanga February 27, 2025 DA-BAFS Technical Services Division (TSD) Standards Policy Recommendation (SPR) Section held an Evaluation Reference Group (ERG) meeting at the DA-BAFS Conference Room February 27, 2025 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8